Four Leitrim groups in the race for €100,000 National Lottery prize

Four inspiring Leitrim-based groups have been named County Finalists in the 2025 National Lottery Good Causes Awards, putting them one step closer to national recognition—and a potential share of the €100,000 prize fund.

Carrigallen GAA Club, Annaduff GAA & LGFA, Breffni Community Development CLG, and Woodlands of Ireland were revealed among 146 standout projects across Ireland selected for their impact and dedication to building stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities.

Carrigallen GAA is nominated in the Health & Wellbeing category, while Annaduff GAA & LGFA will represent Leitrim in the Sport category. Breffni Community Development CLG is shortlisted under Community, and Woodlands of Ireland—dedicated to the protection and restoration of native woodlands—is nominated under Heritage.

Now in its seventh year, the Good Causes Awards celebrate the individuals, clubs, and organisations supported by National Lottery funding. Almost 30 cent of every €1 spent on lottery games goes directly to Good Causes across Ireland.

“It’s an honour to announce and celebrate these outstanding beneficiaries,” said National Lottery CEO Cian Murphy. “Each one is a shining example of the positive, lasting impact Good Causes have across Ireland. Everyone associated with the National Lottery can feel proud to support success stories like these.”

Broadcaster Marty Whelan, returning as MC for this year’s ceremony, added: “This year’s finalists represent the very best of who we are—selfless, passionate and committed to making Ireland a better place. It’s a joy to celebrate their achievements and give them the recognition they so richly deserve.”

Speaking after the announcement, a Woodlands of Ireland spokesperson said: “This recognition means the world to us. It’s a boost for our volunteers, our mission, and for the awareness around biodiversity in Ireland.”

Carrigallen GAA also expressed pride: “We’re more than a club—we’re a cornerstone of the community. To be acknowledged for our health and wellbeing work is a great honour.”

All 146 County Finalists will now move on to the next stage of judging, with 35 National Finalists to be announced later this summer. Each of those will receive €1,000 and an invite to the awards ceremony at Killashee House Hotel, Naas on Saturday, October 18.

On the night, seven category winners will each receive €10,000, with one overall Good Cause of the Year taking home an additional €25,000. A special ‘Hero of the Year’ award will also be presented, carrying a prize of €5,000.

Since its inception 37 years ago, the National Lottery has raised over €6.5 billion for Good Causes. In 2024 alone, over €239 million was distributed to communities across Ireland.

To see the full list of County Finalists, visit: www.lottery.ie/goodcausesawards

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