In a ceremony steeped in local pride and literary admiration, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Declan Bree, hosted a special Civic Reception on Monday last, to honour Dr. Úna Mannion, the internationally acclaimed author, for her exceptional literary achievements, most notably winning the prestigious CWA Gold Dagger Award in July 2024 for her novel, Tell Me What I Am.
Dr. Úna Mannion honoured with Civic Reception
Cathaoirleach Cllr. Declan Bree opened the reception by expressing immense pride in Dr. Mannion's accomplishments. "It is both an honour and a pleasure to welcome you all here today to this special Civic Reception in recognition of an exceptional citizen of our county — a writer of profound talent, resilience, and international acclaim — Dr. Úna Mannion," he stated. He highlighted the significance of the CWA Gold Dagger Award, noting its legacy with past recipients such as John le Carré and Ian Rankin, and emphasised the immense pride felt in Sligo and across Ireland for a local writer triumphing over globally renowned authors like Dennis Lehane and Mick Herron.
Cllr. Bree praised Tell Me What I Am, which the judging panel described as "haunting and beautifully written," a character-driven thriller that "expertly examines the boundaries of love, power and control" and "will stay with you long after you turn the last page." He also detailed Dr. Mannion's impressive literary journey, including her 2017 Hennessy Emerging Poetry Prize, the success of her debut novel, A Crooked Tree, and her recognition by An Post Irish Book Awards as one of the "20 Best New Irish Writers."
"Úna, your roots run deep here in Sligo—a land steeped in stories, from Yeats’ lakeside whispers to the rugged tales of our Atlantic coast. You’ve added a new chapter to that legacy, proving that our small county nurtures world-class talent," Cllr. Bree remarked. He concluded by extending the warmest congratulations on behalf of Sligo County Council and the people of County Sligo, acknowledging Dr. Mannion as an inspiration for aspiring writers and artists.
Dr. Úna Mannion signing the Distinguished Visitors Book alongside Cathaoirleach Cllr Declan Bree
In her heartfelt address, Dr. Úna Mannion reflected on the unique creative spirit of Sligo. "Sligo is bursting with creative people," she observed, attributing this not only to the unparalleled landscape but also to the strong community support. She particularly highlighted the contributions of organisations like the Blue Raincoat theatre company, Sligo County Council Creative Ireland office, and Sligo Central Library for their unwavering support of writing and literature.
Dr. Mannion spoke warmly of the vibrant writing scene in Sligo and the crucial role other writers played in her journey. She specifically mentioned her writing group, including Rose Jordan, Niamh MacCabe, Louise Kennedy, Julianna Holland, Mairead McCann, Rhona Trench, and the late poet Nora McGillen, who she credited with providing encouragement, validation, and guidance. "Nora embodied that magic that happens here in Sligo," Dr. Mannion shared, expressing her honour in knowing her.
She also acknowledged the "extraordinary" Writing + Literature programme at Sligo ATU, and thanked her former colleagues and the lifelong friendships forged during her time working in Truffles on The Mall. Dr. Mannion fondly recalled her deep family ties to Strandhill and her introduction to Sligo's vibrant traditional music scene through her uncle and, notably, her husband, Michael Holmes, a member of the renowned band Dervish.
Dr. Mannion concluded by expressing gratitude to her family, including her sisters Grainne and Siobhan, and her immediate family: "Michael, Dualtagh, Bronagh and Aoibhin. They are the heart of everything.
Front Row (L-R): Dr Úna Mannion, Cathaoirleach Councillor Declan Bree, Patricia Keane, Senior Executive Librarian, Sligo Library Back Row (L-R): Dónal Tinney, Sligo County Librarian, Jim Molloy, Director of Services, Cllr Thomas Walsh, Deputy Frank Feighan, Cllr Michael Clarke
Front Row (L-R): Dr Úna Mannion, Cathaoirleach Councillor Declan Bree, Michael Holmes Back Row (L-R): Aoibhin Holmes, Grainne Mannion, Siobhan Mannion