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31 Oct 2025
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31 Oct 2025
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Sylvia Thompson (The Irish Times) is presented with a National Press Award by Roger Sweeney, Water Safety Ireland and Minister of State Jerry Buttimer. Photo: David Branigan/Oceansport
In a lovely Laois coincidence, both the National and the Regional Press Awards by Water Safety Ireland went to two Mountmellick born journalists this week.
They were two of four Laois winners at the 2025 Water Safety Ireland annual awards ceremony, held in UCD on October 21.
Sylvia Thompson, daughter of the well known late Mountmellick charity shop owner Nellie Thompson, is a journalist with the Irish Times.
Water Safety Ireland says it “recognises Sylvia Thompson of The Irish Times for her impactful journalism highlighting the often-overlooked dangers associated with swimming and rip currents.
“Through compelling storytelling and expert insight, Sylvia brought national attention to the risks faced by swimmers and the importance of informed, responsible behaviour around water.
“Her work plays a vital role in supporting public education, helping to shift attitudes and encourage safer practices along Ireland's coastlines and inland waterways”.
Sylvia now lives in Greystones, County Wicklow and is a regular sea swimmer.
She spoke to the Leinster Express after the awards ceremony.
“When researching and writing the article on water safety for The Irish Times in July, 2025, I was reminded yet again how we should never over-estimate our ability when in the water and never underestimate the power of the water in rivers, lakes and along our coastline,” she said.
The award was presented to Ms Thompson by Roger Sweeney, Deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland, and the Minister of State in the Department of Rural and Community Affairs Jerry Buttimer, in the O'Reilly Hall, UCD on October 21.
The Regional Press Award was presented to Leinster Express journalist Lynda Kiernan.
A special award for bravery went to the swim coach of Marlins Swim Club, who saved the live of a young club swimmer by performing CPR.
For safety tips and more on Water Safety Ireland see here.
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