Limerick’s long connection to Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards (IYFTY) 2026 was evident this week as the national awards, founded in the city, celebrated emerging filmmaking talent from across the country in the Mansion House, Dublin.
This year’s overall title of Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2026 went to Liam Raymond (18), Cavan, for his film Deep Where The Cailleach Lives.
Limerick was represented among the category winners, with Limerick Youth Theatre taking home the Best Art Direction Award for 12 Scissors, a visually inventive film exploring identity through a murder investigation told from multiple perspectives.
The awards are part of the Fresh International Film Festival, which was founded in Limerick in 1996 and is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
- External Walls: Up to €8,000 Grant
- Attic: Up to €1,500 Grant
- Cavity Walls: Up to €1,700 Grant
- Internal Dry Lining: Up to €4,500 Grant
What began as the Irish Schools Video Competition has grown into a national platform for young filmmakers, with participants now working in a fully digital and increasingly professional environment.
Jayne Foley, Founder and Director of Fresh Film, said: “After almost 30 years of Fresh Film, it is incredible to see the level of talent coming through. These finalists represent a new generation of filmmakers who are skilled, ambitious and ready to be part of the wider screen industry.”
Often described as the “Young Oscars” of Irish film, the awards are recognised as one of the leading platforms internationally for young filmmakers.
This year’s awards attracted more than 1,500 entries, with 60 films shortlisted. The ceremony was hosted by filmmaker and three-time IYFTY winner Seán Treacy and comedian and actor Faye Shortt, with Meg Hughes covering red carpet arrivals.