Néara-Éagsúlacht: Dearcadh Difriúil and Na Lumière Gaeltacha nominated for Celtic Media Awards

Néara-Éagsúlacht: Dearcadh Difriúil, produced by Tyrone Productions for TG4, has been nominated for Best Factual Series at the 2026 Celtic Media Festival. UCC FSM PhD student, Eleanor McSherry, served as the series’ neurodiversity consultant.

In this role, she supported the development of the proposal, delivered workshops, advised the filming crew on neurodiversity, assisted throughout production, and contributed to the final edit.

This two-part documentary examines the challenges and triumphs experienced by neurodivergent individuals and their families, underscoring the importance of understanding, inclusion, and meaningful support.

The first episode focuses on children under 18 and their families, exploring how they navigate environments not always designed with their needs in mind. The second shifts its attention to adults, addressing themes such as employment, the pursuit of understanding, and the resilience required to navigate adulthood as a neurodivergent person. Filmed over the course of a year with committed contributors, the series offers an honest and moving insight into the everyday realities of neurodivergent people across Ireland.

What makes the series particularly impactful is that neurodivergent voices are placed at its centre, shaping the narrative and guiding the storytelling throughout.

Na Lumière Gaelacha a documentary about the pioneering Horgan brothers, early cinema producers and exhibitors from Youghal has also been nominated for two awards in the Best History documentary and The Spirit of The Festival categories. The series, which was supported by UCC's Film & Screen Media department, featured PhD students Kasandra O'Connell and Ellen Scally as expert contributors.

Watch here on TG4