Aoife Moore

Aoife Moore’s columns are consistently among the most widely read and debated in The Irish News. She is determined to be a voice for those who go unheard or are marginalised, and fearless in ensuring uncomfortable debates are brought out into the open, while demanding truth and accountability from those in power.

Aoife's characteristic directness and clarity are perfectly showcased in her personal, raw column written on the day ‘Soldier F’ was acquitted of the murder of civil rights marchers on Bloody Sunday in 1972. Writing of how “they shot my uncle, Patrick Doherty, in the back while he crawled along the ground to safety”, Aoife draws on her own experiences to deliver a strong critique of the state and justice system. The column was widely shared by political figures, victims’ groups and others, and generated a significant online reaction.

Other work includes her column on the disappearance of vulnerable children, shining a light on state neglect and a chronic shortage of social workers. Once again, it was widely referenced by politicians and others. And in Aoife’s column on anti-immigration action in Dublin, she draws powerfully on her experience of how flags are weaponised as instruments of intimidation in Northern Ireland.

Judges’ comments: “Aoife's writing has the power to provoke debate and change perceptions among readers – and she is doing that by using her own clear voice.”