National Lottery unveils Mayo Dark Skies as national finalist in Good Causes Awards 2023

Mayo Dark Skies – the community-based group working to reduce light pollution and preserve and restore dark skies over the county – has been announced as a national finalist in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards 2023.

Mayo Dark Skies carry out their work through education, raising awareness and running events promoting positive lighting practices and supporting environmental goals.

Their latest project focused on creating a lighting master plan for the town of Newport, which has reduced light pollution and redesigned how heritage and architectural buildings should be lit at night to reduce harsh glares and ecological light pollution.

The National Lottery Good Causes Awards honour the inspiring work and achievements of thousands of projects, clubs and individuals from all over Ireland who, with the help of National Lottery Good Causes funding, have had an extraordinary impact on their local communities. Nearly 30 cent in every €1 spent on National Lottery games goes back to good causes all over the country.

Speaking at the announcement of the 34 national finalists, Christopher O’Brien, CEO of the Irish Homeless Street Leagues, was delighted his non-profit organisation had made the shortlist.

He stated: “It's great news for everyone involved and a great opportunity to let people know about our leagues. At the Irish Homeless Street Leagues, we believe ‘a ball can change a life’. Through our nationwide leagues we create positive change by empowering people with difficult lives to fulfil their true potential. We’re really looking forward to the big night out in October and taking a night off training with the team!”

Chantel Pearse, goalkeeper with the Moyross branch of the Irish Homeless Street League, spoke of the impact being part of the team has had on her life: “It’s had a huge impact on my life. In my teenage years I struggled a lot with my mental health and life was very difficult for me, to the point where I ended up sofa surfing for a while.

“Since joining the Moyross team, I’ve been supported in every way physically and mentally by my managers, team-mates and supporters. In my personal life it’s made me work harder because I can see the achievements from perseverance.

“Everyone on our team is so accepting, because a lot of people have had the same struggles that they’re coming some from somewhere that is disadvantaged. All the women on the team come together and support each other – it’s like a big family.”

Each of the 34 national finalists will now receive €1,000 and proceed to the grand final, in which there are seven categories: Arts & Culture, Community, Health & Wellbeing, Heritage, Irish Language, Sport, and Youth. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Saturday, October 21, in Killashee House Hotel, Co. Kildare, where each of the seven category winners will receive €10,000 and the overall Good Cause of the Year will take home an additional €25,000.

Andrew Algeo, CEO of the National Lottery, expressed his admiration for the Mayo finalist, stating: “On behalf of the National Lottery, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Mayo Dark Skies group in becoming a national finalist in the Good Causes Awards 2023. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the unwavering commitment and hard work of the volunteers who have dedicated themselves to making a difference to the lives of others. Their contributions have transformed communities across the nation, touching the lives of individuals from all walks of life. From the smallest villages to the largest cities, these organisations have built bridges, provided opportunities, and offered support where it was needed most.”

More information on the finalists and the National Lottery Good Causes Awards can be found here.