Connect with our team

Chairperson

Laurence Meehan

Laurence Meehan is Chairperson of the Mullingar Literary Festival and a passionate advocate for literature, poetry and the arts in the Midlands. A member of Inklings Writing Group, he is currently working on his debut poetry collection while helping grow MLF into a major cultural event for Mullingar.

Secretary

Deirdre Bigley

Deirdre Bigley serves as Secretary of the Mullingar Literary Festival, bringing dedication, organisation and a strong commitment to supporting the festival’s growing literary community. Through her work with the festival team, she helps ensure the smooth planning and delivery of MLF26.

Festival Co-ordinator

Samantha Meehan

Samantha Meehan is Festival Co-ordinator for the Mullingar Literary Festival, overseeing the organisation, online marketing and day-to-day planning of MLF26. With a strong interest in community arts, digital promotion and cultural events, she plays a central role in bringing the festival programme to life.

Treasurer

Brian McLoughlin

Returning to the role for a second time, Brian McLoughlin brings experience, reliability and a steady hand to the position of Treasurer for MLF26. His careful approach and commitment to transparency help ensure the festival is managed with professionalism and accountability.

Children's Events Co-ordinator

Jeanette Everson

An established writer, Jeanette Everson brings a wealth of creative experience and literary knowledge to the Mullingar Literary Festival team. As a teacher and passionate advocate for young writers, she is committed to encouraging creativity, education and new voices through MLF26.

Children's Events Co-ordinator

Chele Crawley

Chele Crawley is a primary school teacher in Westmeath who brings creativity, enthusiasm and fresh literary energy to her role in MLF26. Recently launching her first book to widespread acclaim, she is passionate about promoting reading, writing and literary engagement within the community.

Funds and Promotions Co-ordinator
Jacqui Wiley

Jacqui Wiley is the Fundraising and Promotions Co-ordinator for MLF 2026. A longtime Inklings member and writer, Jacqui brings creativity, warmth, and strong communication skills to the role, drawing on her love of storytelling, community, and connection to help promote and support the festival’s growth.

Fundraising Team Member
Louise Ryan

Louise Ryan is part of the MLF 2026 team, bringing experience as a published writer in self-help and mental wellbeing. With a strong interest in inclusion, Louise is passionate about reaching out to lesser-recognised members of the writing community and helping create a festival where every voice feels valued.

Talent sourcing executive

Jimmy O'Connell

Established poet Jimmy O’Connell serves as Talent Sourcing Executive for MLF26, using his extensive literary connections and experience to help shape a vibrant and diverse festival programme. A respected voice in Irish poetry, he is passionate about supporting writers and bringing outstanding literary talent to Mullingar.

Committee Members
  • Aisling Ryan
  • Monica Martin
  • Niall Sheridan
  • Brendan Martin
  • Martina Maloney