National photographic exhibition is on display in Ballina

Press Photographers Ireland is currently holding its Press Photographer of the Year Exhibition 2024 at Ballina Library in tribute and in memory of the late Henry Wills of the Western People - a past president of Press Photographers Ireland and long-time stalwart of the body which represents press photographers across the island of Ireland.

The exhibition, Ireland’s stories in images, was officially opened by Iar Taoiseach Enda Kenny, alongside David Branigan, President of Press Photographers Ireland and special friends of the late Henry Wills, Dermot O’Shea and Brenda Fitzsimons. The evening also featured a short photographic presentation by AIB Press Photographer of the Year 2024, Alan Betson of The Irish Times. The exhibition is being hosted by the Western People and Mayo County Library.

The exhibition features 114 images in total capturing life, both at home and abroad, during 2023 and showcasing the very best of Irish press photography. It runs until July 20th next. 

The AIB Press Photographer of the Year Award 2024 was presented at a special ceremony in Dublin in February by An Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD in addition to winners of 10 individual categories – News, Daily Life and People, Sports Action, Sports Feature, Portrait, Nature and the Environment, Politics, Arts and Entertainment, Reportage and Multimedia in addition to the AIB Sustainability Award.

Alan Betson of The Irish Times was awarded the trophy with his portfolio praised by the judges for its huge versatility. This was the fourth occasion that the Meath resident has won the sought-after title, now in its 46th year.

Commenting at the opening reception event at Ballina Library, David Branigan, President of Press Photographers Ireland CLG, said: “The opening of the exhibition in Ballina is particularly poignant for our members as it is the exhibition’s first visit to Ballina since the passing of Henry Wills. Henry was an incredible supporter of Press Photographers Ireland – from being past president, to being instrumental in the running of the awards judging and indeed of the gala awards events and exhibition tour. 

"We remember Henry tonight along with his family and colleagues from the Western People and pay tribute to his dedication to press photography in Ireland. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank James Laffey and the Western People along with Mayo County Library for hosting the Press Photographer of the Year Exhibition 2024’."

James Laffey, Editor of the Western People, thanked Mayo County Library and, in particular, Austin Vaughan, Barbara Varley and the team at Ballina Library for hosting the special evening, which was attended by many of Henry's family and friends. He also revealed plans for a photographic competition in memory of the Ballina native. The idea for the competition for young photographers came from Henry's long-time friend and former colleague Mary Ruane-Brogan and it will be launched later in the year.

Iar Taoiseach Enda Kenny spoke of the importance of press photography and noted that pictures taken with mobile phones could never replicate the artistry of the professional photographer. 

Cathaoirleach of Ballina Municipal District Cllr Michael Loftus was also in attendance.