Irish Writers Centre: Information Session

The Irish Writers Centre is the leading development and resource organisation for writers. Carrying out its work online and in-person on an all-island basis, it supports writers at every stage of their journey. 

During this panel discussion, three panellists will share their experience as recipients of some of the key programmes at the Irish Writers Centre, including the National Mentoring Programme, Novel Fair and Evolution. 

Join Damien Donnelly, from the Irish Writers Centre, who will be in conversation with Andrew Cunning, Sue Divin and Deirdre Cartmill.

Andrew Cunning is a writer and English teacher from Belfast. His writing on literature, theology and politics has appeared in academic journals, The Irish Times, Slugger O'Toole and Radio 4. Clara and Christina is his first novel. He was a 2025 Novel Fair winner at the Irish Writers Centre. 

Sue Divin is a Derry-based writer with Armagh roots. She has two YA/crossover novels (another out in 2026…) Carnegie shortlisted Guard Your Heart, a ‘Romeo and Juliet set in Derry 2016’ won the Great Reads Award Ireland, and Truth Be Told, ‘Parent-trap meets Derry Girls’, shortlisted in the Irish Book Awards. Her writing has been described as ‘Profoundly powerful, subtle and effective’ (The Guardian), ‘Compelling’ (Irish Times) and ‘Laced with dry wit, emotion and self-deprecating humour’ (Irish News). Board Member of Irish PEN/PEN na hÉireann, Sue's writing often touches on diversity, reconciliation, borders and the legacy of the Troubles today.

Deirdre Cartmill is a critically acclaimed poet, scriptwriter and BBC Script Editor and has over 20 years’ experience as a mentor and facilitator. She is a Part-time Lecturer in Creative Writing for Ulster University and has published three poetry collections - The Wind Stills to Listen (Arlen House), The Return of the Buffalo (Lagan Press) and Midnight Solo (Lagan Press). She co-commissioned and co-curated Ireland’s first Poetry Jukebox which is now a permanent installation at The Crescent Arts Centre. 

Click here for more details about the Irish Writers Centre and their work.