Our TY International Relations Club had the privilege of visiting Dáil Éireann, where students experienced Irish democracy in action at the heart of the Oireachtas of Ireland.
We were honoured to be guests of John McGuinness, Leas-Cheann Comhairle, and are very grateful for his warm welcome and for acknowledging our students while chairing a live Dáil debate; a moment that made a lasting impression. Sincere thanks also to Special Advisor Ms Muireann O’Neill, his long-time aide, for her invaluable assistance in organising the visit.
Students toured Leinster House, including the Committee Rooms, gaining insight into how legislation is debated, examined and shaped. A highlight for many was observing a live Dáil debate from the public gallery, an experience students described as genuinely thrilling.
During the tour, students were reminded that Leinster House was once the residence of the Fitzgerald family. It is striking to consider that Edward FitzGerald, associated with the events of Irish Rebellion of 1798, moved through these same corridors; a powerful contrast with its role today as the home of Ireland’s democratic life.
Drawing on their recent work through Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders, including presentations on human trafficking and the space race, students made strong connections between their classroom learning and the values of justice, leadership, partnership and compassion in action.
We were also delighted to meet former CBC student Daniel Dowling (LC 2021) at Kilkenny Railway Station, who greeted the group warmly and saw us onto our train to Dublin; a lovely reminder of the strong connections within the CBC community.
This visit brought democracy to life, showing students how their voices can contribute to shaping a more just and informed society.