The fourth annual GoIreland Photography Awards was launched recently by the Minister of the Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen, in Dublin. The competition is run in association with John Hinde and the winner, along with eleven runners-up, will be included in a special calendar. The over-all winner will also receive a luxury holiday in Ireland with flights, car rental and hotel stays included. The closing date for entries is 6pm on the 10th of October.

The 2008 GoIreland Photography Awards will be judged by a panel including former Tanaiste Dick Spring, with the results of the competition being announced in January 2009 on our website.

The competition doesn’t necessarily put a focus on scenic country areas but gives the entrant the opportunity to submit any photos that they feel captures the ‘Wonders of Ireland’, be it scenic, urban or of daily life in the country. Anything that you feel sets Ireland apart from the rest of the world as a tourist destination can be submitted to the competition through the GoIreland web site<www.goireland.com>. Unfortunately postal entries will not be accepted.

The competition is open to people of all nationalities, meaning any tourist visiting Ireland is in with a chance of winning. Last year’s overall winner and the first two runners-up actually came from Germany, France and Canada respectively. The competition also aims to encourage amateur photographers to get out and capture what they feel embodies the spirit of Ireland. It offers a great chance for exposure for these budding photographers, as the calendar will be circulated throughout Ireland.

Again the very best of luck to all entrants!