The Edge welcomes The Ivors Academy launch in Ireland

The Ivors Academy have announced the launch of The Ivors Academy in Ireland. Its first formal presence outside the UK in eight decades, its policy in Ireland will be led by former Arts and Culture Minister Catherine Martin.

The programme is supposed to increase protection, empowerment and celebration of songwriters and composers across Ireland. The organisation described the initiative as a "dedicated home for music writers across the whole island of Ireland, supporting all genres, disciplines and career stages".

The Ivors Academy is a professional association for songwriters and composers, and organisation behind the Ivor Novello Awards. The academy works to protect and support the interests of songwriters, lyricists, and composers in Europe.

U2’s The Edge, who was titled Fellow of The Ivors Academy in 2025, said: “In a fast-moving, tech-focused world, it is more important than ever to celebrate and protect human creativity".

"The Ivors Academy has long demonstrated its commitment and support for music writers at every stage of their careers," he added.

"The announcement of The Ivors Academy in Ireland, in partnership with IMRO, is welcome news for the music community, coming with its significant experience, energy and focus on the many important issues facing songwriters and composers today and into the future”.

The Ivors Academy has recognised Irish creatives for over seventy years through the Ivor Novello Awards, celebrating winners and nominees like U2, Hozier, CMAT, Orla Gartland, Fontaines DC, Lankum, Jazzy, and Shane MacGowan.

"This feels important both on an individual and nationwide scale; as a country known globally for its music and art, we need to make sure that those who contribute to that culture are protected and paid," said Irish singer-songwriter Orla Gartland, who won the Ivor Novello Award last year.

Through the project, The Ivors Academy aim to raise discussions at EU level on topics like AI, copyright, fair terms, and remuneration for songwriters and composers.

Catherine Martin, who introduced the Basic Income for the Arts pilot scheme will lead policy and report to CEO of The Ivors Academy Roberto Neri.

"I’m delighted to appoint Catherine Martin to lead our policy work in Ireland to create a new, dedicated home for music writers focused on fair pay, creative freedom and long-term sustainability," he said.

For more information about The Ivors Academy policy go here.