A new student journalism accolade will be named in memory of Joe Drennan, a 21-year-old editor-in-chief of the Limerick Voice who tragically lost his life in a road accident while waiting at a bus stop in Limerick a year ago. The specifics of the contest were revealed at an event at the University of Limerick on Thursday, attended by several family members of the late scholar.
Joe Drennan was the editor-in-chief of the Limerick Voice – the University of Limerick’s hardcopy and online platform, supervised by the journalism department during the time of his unfortunate demise. According to Dr Kathryn Hayes, Associate Professor, BA Journalism and Digital Communication, the award aims to laud Joe’s trailblazing ethos and the significant contribution he made during his tenure at the institution.
“Joe was dedicated to uncovering narratives that would engender an improved understanding of forgotten communities, whom he felt were frequently sidelined in mainstream media. His aspiration for transformation is evident in his journalistic works and his vision for his role at the Limerick Voice,” she commented, adding that the competition aims to cultivate a more varied and inclusive media environment, worthy of Joe’s legacy.
Marguerite, Joe’s mother, expressed immense pride and recounted how touched the Drennan family felt that his memory would continue to inspire forthcoming generations. She thanked attendees for their support and expressed her gratitude for the university’s efforts. The award this year is open to all UL students.
The Limerick Voice is a vehicle for final year journalism students at UL and is published in conjunction with The Limerick Leader.
Kieran Fogarty, a 20-year-old resident of Hyde Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston, Limerick, was accused in January of causing Joe Drennan’s death due to reckless driving. He was also charged with driving without valid insurance or a driving licence.