Last night at the Camden Court Hotel in Dublin, the Mayo Association Dublin announced its winners of the 2026 Virginia Gallagher Mayo Person of the Year and the Paddy Joe Moran Meitheal Award.
The Mayo Person of the Year is Sabina Higgins Coyne, actress, political activist and First Lady of Ireland from 2011 to 2025.
Over her distinguished career, Sabina has amassed considerable achievements. She has been a lifelong supporter of the Arts, a longstanding advocate for women’s rights, empowerment, and gender equality.
The winners of the Meitheal Award are Cuimsiú Mhaigheo .
Cuimsiú Mhaigheo is a powerful effort developed by Mayo Comhaltas to foster inclusivity within the world of Irish traditional music.
It offers competitors choices, creating a safe and encouraging atmosphere where each performer can shine.
Chuck and Mairead Dunford were central to the setting up of Cuimsiú Mhaigheo and Chuck spoke to Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley this lunchtime.
She began by congratulating him and all Cuimsiú Mhaigheo participants and asked him what was it like to be named as the Paddy Joe Moran Meitheal Award winners 2026 last night…
https://www.midwestradio.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/chuck.mp3