Harry Clifton has been announced as the Ireland Professor of Poetry 2010 by An Taoiseach Brian Cowen. The position, established by the Arts Council/ An Chomhairle Ealaíon, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Trinity College Dublin, Queen’s University Belfast and University College Dublin, celebrates the exceptional contribution of Irish poets to the world of literature. The outgoing Professor of Poetry is Michael Longley.

My warmest congratulations to Harry Clifton on receiving this very well deserved honour as Ireland’s next Professor of Poetry. He is a most worthy champion of our country’s long poetic tradition and I would like to wish him every success during his tenure.

– Brian Cowen

Clifton said that the award was a ‘huge honour, and totally unexpected. And to succeed Michael Longley, one of the most admired poets in the language itself, let alone the country, is especially wonderful.’

The Chair is tenable for a period of three years (non-renewable) during which time the holder will be attached to each of the three universities in turn and will be required to be in residence at each for approximately one academic term per year. In addition, the holder will make three formal presentations and hold other informal workshops, lectures and readings for the public.

Click here to watch Harry Clifton reading and visit the irishtimes.com for more about the appointment.