The 34-year-old director first gained recognition for his short works -- a category which draws a lively collection of entries each year.

CNN: GAINING CULTURAL CAPITAL

Announcing the result, chairman of the judging panel Dr Eric Anderson said the winners were chosen only after a "lively and spirited debate" during which at one time or other, each of the five finalists looked to be the front runner.

BBC: Heaney wins Whitbread book prize

The lively sessions allowed for the presentation of an overview of the status of freedom of information in each country, and for the provision of feedback on the proposed actions - both within and across country teams.

UNESCO: Communication and Information