Ireland’s largest community awards attracted a viewership of 6,000 people on Saturday night as projects from across the island were nominated for prizes.

Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the Community Sector’ the Pride of Place awards is an annual competition organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance. It promotes and celebrates the best in community development and recognises the selfless efforts of people in making their local area a better places to live, work and socialise.

In 2020, 82 groups were nominated across 29 local authority areas. This year marked the 18th anniversary of the awards which were to be hosted by Kerry County Council but instead took place online due to the Covid-19 pandemic. RTE’s Marty Morrissey hosted the event which was streamed live at www.prideofplace.ie

President Michael D. Higgins, who is Joint Patron of Co-operation Ireland with Queen Elizabeth, said the awards played an important role.

“The Pride of Place awards are a most important initiative, reminding us that creating societies that are ethical and inclusive is a task for all of our citizens, of all ages and circumstances.”

George Jones Chairman, IPB Insurance said: “We are proud to be title sponsors of the Pride of Place awards and continue to be amazed by the standard of submissions and their social impact on communities is a testament to an individual and collective vision for a better Ireland.

“This competition provides a fitting platform to recognise the vast strides communities across the island of Ireland are making. It is essential, now more than ever, that in these challenging times that we reflect and focus on the positives and take time to celebrate the excellent work accomplished around the island of Ireland.”