25.08.2009

The Irish Web Awards and Realex Payments recently announced details of the Realex Payments 2009 Irish Web Awards: http://awards.ie/webawards which will happen on October 10th, 2009 in the Radisson SAS, Golden Lane. The Awards, now in their second year are unique for Ireland in that they are totally free to enter with every entry being judged by a panel of judges who use a publicised scorecard. This year, each website's score will also be made public.

Categories for the Web Awards include: Best Practice, Most Beautiful Website in Ireland, Most Useful Website in Ireland, Most Accessible Website and the overall Grand Prix of Best Website in Ireland.

Last year's winners included The Irish Times, RTE, Boards.ie, Phantom FM and PollDaddy.

Speaking about the Web Awards and their transparent philosophy, organiser Damien Mulley said: "The web has always been about democracy and transparency and so it seems right to follow suit with these Awards. As well as an all-welcoming entry criteria and all the scores being made available, we also listen to the public and have changed some categories and added new ones based on feedback. It's as much about the community as it is about giving out the trophies to winners."

Colm Lyon C.E.O. of Realex Payments said: "We saw what a success the awards were last year and how they highlighted and recognised new talent and we're delighted to support this year's event. The informal attitude too means that the events are great for meeting with fellow web developers and entrepreneurs and growing friendships."

Mulley added "We're delighted that Realex Payments came on board as they have an established and respected presence in the Irish Web Community and their sponsorship will help to highlight new web talent and bring the web community together for one of the most fun nights out this year."

Entry to the Awards on the night is 35, a fraction of other ceremonies and has a strict "No tuxes" rule but Mulley will waive the entry fee for those that turn up in full Ireland soccer kit as the Irish soccer match is on during the event.

Nominations for the Web Awards are now open and close at the end of the month.

Full category list:

News and Media

• Best Online Publication
• Best Radio Website
• Best Podcaster
• Best Videocaster

Arts and Entertainment

• Best Sports Site
• Best Music Site
• Best Entertainment Website
• Best Arts and Culture

Technology

• Best Technology Site
• Best New Web Application/Service
• Most Innovative Website

Government and Community

• Best Discussion forum
• Best Government and Council Website
• Education and Science
• Best Education website reserved

Commerce

• Best eCommerce / Services Website

Speciality

• An Suomh Gaeilge is Fear

Technical Awards

• Best Practice
• Most Beautiful Website in Ireland
• Most Useful Website in Ireland
• Most Accessible Website

Grand Prix

• Best Website in Ireland