Annual Miriam
Hederman
O’Brien Prize
MHOB Prize
About the Annual
MHOB Prize
The Foundation for Fiscal Studies presents the annual Miriam Hederman O’Brien Prize to recognise outstanding contributors in the area of Irish fiscal, economic and social policy. The aim is to recognise those whose work contributes to informed discussion of key fiscal, economic and social policy issues.
Eddie Casey, Killian Carroll with Minister Jack Chambers
2023 MHOB Award Winners
Pioneering Voice
Inspiring Leadership
Miriam Hederman-O’Brien was a trailblazing figure in Irish public life, known for her lifelong commitment to social justice, gender equality, and European integration. Originally pursuing a career in music, she shifted to law, studying at UCD and the King’s Inns before turning to journalism, where she wrote extensively on education, women’s rights, and social issues. Her advocacy extended beyond writing—she worked with groups such as the Foundation for Fiscal Studies, NESC, and the Irish Centre for European Law, influencing national policy. Learn More about Dr Miriam Hederman O’Brien, one of the original founder members of the Foundation.
For more information about Miriam Hedereman O’Brien click here.
Submissions
Nominations
Each year, nominations are invited for work that has advanced public knowledge or understanding in areas such as taxation, public expenditure, and related fiscal policy topics. The Prize recognises contributions that focus on practical challenges, highlight how policy impacts outcomes, or shed light on issues of real significance for Ireland’s future as both a society and an economy.
Eligibility
Eligible Nominations
Eligible nominations include individuals or institutions whose work—research, publications, opinions, or media—advances practical policy insights.
Research and
Reports
Research papers, Reports, Studies
Books and
Publications
Books, Book chapters, Articles
Media and
Opinion
Blogs, Opinion pieces, Newspaper articles
Broadcast and
Visual
TV/radio contributions, Documentaries
Our Approach
Selection Process
A shortlist of nominations is compiled, with the winners chosen by a judging panel chaired by the Foundation’s Chairman, Colm Kelly. The panel includes both national and international experts.
The successful contribution will receive the Miriam Hederman O’Brien Prize, which includes a commemorative Gold Medal. The panel may also choose to recognise other significant contributions across different categories with additional awards.