Pádraig Standún was born in Ballydavock, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, in 1946. He is a well- known writer, activist and priest. He is best renowned for his novels but many of his plays have also been produced. Stigmata, was produced by Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe in 1996 and others have been produced on the amateur circuit in Belfast and London.

His play Uisceinafhíon was shortlisted for Cló Iar-Chonnachta's literary award in 2001. Bob Quinn based his film, Budawanny (1987) on the novel, Súil le Breith. He spent time as a priest in Ceathrú Rua, the Aran Islands (Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr) and Tourmakeady, Co Mayo. He is now a chaplain in Carna, Co. Galway. The late Mick Lally launched Pádraig's new book Tuar Mhic Éadaigh; Stair agus Seanchas (Cló Iar-Chonnacht, 2010) in July 2010 a few days before he left the parish.