Frank McNally
Award-winning Reporter & Humourist, Expert in all things Ireland including Culture, History & Irish Abroad
why book frank?
- Frank McNally has been the Chief Writer of An Irishman’s Diary in The Irish Times for over 18 years, captivating readers with his wit
- His storytelling, full of amusing anecdotes and travel stories, makes him a captivating and entertaining speaker
- Frank masterfully connects Irish culture, history, and literature, offering fresh and humorous insights on both modern and historical Ireland
“Frank McNally’s presence was undeniably a standout moment. We were all captivated and enlightened by his closing reflection. With his articulate delivery, storytelling prowess, and deep historical knowledge, Frank’s remarks were nothing short of enthralling for our audience. His ability to connect the dots seamlessly brought together diverse themes and discussions, offering a comprehensive and engaging understanding of the topics. Infused with wit, humour, and insightful observations, Frank’s closing reflection on the Irish-American experience was a masterclass. His contributions left an indelible mark on the event, and we eagerly anticipate his next appearance at our Summer School.”
Dr Brian Murphy, Director of the Kennedy Summer School, New Ross
Biography
Frank McNally is the renowned Chief Writer of An Irishman’s Diary in The Irish Times. For 18 years, his daily column has entertained and enchanted readers as it weaves a way through the culture and society of Ireland – both yesterday and today. Frank’s passion for the giants of Irish literature – Joyce, Kavanagh, Yeats, and Flann O’Brien – is matched by his light touch and wry wit, as he magically draws unexpected connections between his daily routine and the sometimes obscure but always enlightening and rich life of the country. Frank’s armoury of amusing anecdotes, stories of far-flung travels and literary knowledge delights everyone, regaling readers and listeners with fascinating angles on Irish culture both at home and among the great Irish diaspora.
When your audience wants to enjoy a charming and droll take on Irish cultural life and history, Frank is the perfect choice.
Topics
Irish History
Frank is an expert on the history of Ireland, but with an eye for surprising detail and forgotten or unknown human-interest stories.
Culture; Irish & International
Widely read and travelled, Frank is a master of making interesting connections between writers and artists and the places they live in, home and abroad.
Life
As writer of the daily An Irish Diary in the Irish Times for 18 years (and 3,000 columns), Frank is adept at drawing the casual and seemingly chaotic detail of everyday life into funny, interesting, and often uplifting narratives. No subject or audience is beyond his reach.
Frank McNally
“I was delighted to welcome Frank to speak as part of the 2024 National Heritage Week Training event. With his keen eye for connections and bringing seemingly disparate information together Frank engaged our audience with a whistlestop tour of some of the many topics and sites that pique his curiosity. His ability to reflect the interests of the audience and to take them on this journey was a delight to witness. I would be happy to recommend Frank as a keynote and topical speaker for any event.”
Ronan Healy, National Heritage Week Project Manager
testimonials
“Frank McNally’s presence was undeniably a standout moment. We were all captivated and enlightened by his closing reflection. With his articulate delivery, storytelling prowess, and deep historical knowledge, Frank’s remarks were nothing short of enthralling for our audience. His ability to connect the dots seamlessly brought together diverse themes and discussions, offering a comprehensive and engaging understanding of the topics. Infused with wit, humour, and insightful observations, Frank’s closing reflection on the Irish-American experience was a masterclass. His contributions left an indelible mark on the event, and we eagerly anticipate his next appearance at our Summer School.”
Dr Brian Murphy, Director of the Kennedy Summer School, New Ross
“I was delighted to welcome Frank to speak as part of the 2024 National Heritage Week Training event. With his keen eye for connections and bringing seemingly disparate information together Frank engaged our audience with a whistlestop tour of some of the many topics and sites that pique his curiosity. His ability to reflect the interests of the audience and to take them on this journey was a delight to witness. I would be happy to recommend Frank as a keynote and topical speaker for any event.”
Ronan Healy, National Heritage Week Project Manager



