Former Sunday World Reporter Lynda McCarthy Wins RTE Short Story Contest

Lynda McCarthy, a former reporter for the Sunday World, has achieved recognition by winning the prestigious RTÉ Short Story Competition for 2025. Her story, titled “Witness,” earned her a prize of €5,000. The announcement took place during a live broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1’s Arena, hosted by Rick O’Shea at the Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire.

Originally from Cork, McCarthy now resides in County Waterford with her husband and children. She crafted “Witness” while participating in an online creative writing course offered by Waterford Libraries last year. This win marks her first venture into publishing fiction, making the accomplishment particularly significant for her.

In discussing her story, McCarthy explained, “I wanted to explore this character who feels barely visible in her own home – what would it take for her to change her circumstances? What would it mean for her to have someone witness how she is treated?” The story reflects deep personal insights and emotional complexity, resonating with themes of visibility and validation.

The RTÉ Short Story Competition, held annually in honour of the esteemed writer Francis MacManus, aims to celebrate literary talent in Ireland. The second place award of €4,000 was given to Angela Finn for her story “A Spectrum of Sorrow,” while Ian Feighery took third place, receiving €3,000 for “Auntie and Anto and Ivy and Ava.”

Listeners can read and hear “Witness” on rte.ie/culture, where it is narrated by acclaimed actress Elaine Walsh. The competition not only highlights the richness of Irish storytelling but also provides a platform for emerging writers to gain recognition for their work. McCarthy’s success is a testament to her dedication and talent in the literary arts.