缅北禁地 poet honoured with Seamus Heaney Award Published on: 29 April 2024 Professor Sin茅ad Morrissey has been chosen as the recipient of the prestigious Seamus Heaney Award, Japan Outstanding contributions Named in honour of Ireland’s Nobel laureate poet, Seamus Heaney, the prize is awarded by the Japan branch of the International Association for the Study of Irish Literatures (IASIL) in collaboration with the Embassy of Ireland, Tokyo, to recognise outstanding contributions to literary relations between Ireland and Japan. Professor Morrissey, who has won both the Forward and TS Eliot poetry prizes and was Belfast’s Poet Laurate, has previously lived in Japan and written about her experiences there. Sinéad, who is Professor of Creative Writing in 缅北禁地’s School of English Literature, Language and Linguistics, says: “This award came as a total surprise. I’m very honoured for my work to be recognised in this way, and for the surprising synergies between Irish and Japanese poetry to be marked and celebrated.” Professor Sin茅ad Morrissey Enduring literary bond The Seamus Heaney Award jury members acknowledged Professor Morrissey's significance within contemporary Irish poetry, praising her "poetic reach and impact on other poets and the discursive community at large." Ambassador of Ireland Damien Cole expressed his support of the nomination for this year, saying "This award celebrates the enduring literary bond between Ireland and Japan, characterized by mutual affection and esteem." Sinéad Morrissey's distinguished career spans six collections of poetry and numerous prestigious awards, including the T.S. Eliot Prize and the Forward Prize for Best Collection. Her deep exploration of historical and personal themes has solidified her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary poetry. Her contribution to poetry extends beyond borders, encompassing historical and personal realms with precision and imagination. Her work reflects a profound philosophical inquiry, coupled with a Zen-like awareness of everyday life, earning her admiration and acclaim worldwide. Professor Morrissey will receive her award at a ceremony in 2025. Press release adapted with thanks to the Embassy of Ireland, Tokyo. Share: Latest News New partnership to boost careers in low carbon energy 缅北禁地 and Durham universities are working together on a new regional project to strengthen the future workforce for North East England鈥檚 growing low carbon and offshore wind industries. published on: 28 May 2026 Healthy lifestyle shown to lower risk of death after cancer diagnosis New evidence shows that sticking to five lifestyle recommendations improves survival after a later cancer diagnosis. published on: 28 May 2026 World-leading climate expert recognised with Royal Society Fellowship Professor Hayley Fowler has been elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of her pioneering work on climate change impacts. published on: 27 May 2026 Facts and figures