Scoil Pól students at the Dáil
On Wednesday 22nd April, Transition Year students Peter Mc Mahon and Jack Fogarty travelled to Dáil Eireann as part of the Young Social Innovators ‘Speak Out Tour’.
The ‘Speak Out Tour’ is an opportunity for students to put topical questions to a panel of TD’s and Senators and to hear their intentions for the youth of Ireland in the years to come. The topics for discussion were:

• Poverty, Equality and Inclusion in Ireland and the world 
• Local Communities
• Technology/Digital
• Health and Well being
• Education and Employment

Peter Mc Mahon was our questionnaire and his question was
‘With the educational system becoming more digitalised and technologically based, what provisions has the government made to educate the youth regarding on line safety?’
TD’S, Senators and local councillors exchanged places on the panel throughout the afternoon under the chair of Aine Collins. An Taoiseach Enda Kenny called in to speak to the sixty plus young people gathered and enthusiastically spoke on the potential the youth of Ireland have and of his firm belief that the future of our country would be in very able and competent hands.
As with all discussions, additional topics are inadvertently added and a lively but excellent few minutes was taken up discussing the upcoming referendum with TD’s Michael Healy Rea and Jerry Buttimer giving their personal opinions in a very enthusiastic, passionate but respectful manner. The assembled audience enjoyed both impromptu orations.
During the event, the audience and panel with encouraged to tweet comments and observations leading to a ranking of fourth most popular item that day.
Following the discussion stage of the day, the students were taken to a light lunch in the Dáil restaurant. Having rested, they were then taken on a guided tour of Leinster House, getting to sit in the visitors section of the Dáil and observe and listen to the days debates. The tour then proceeded through the Gallery of past Taisaoigh and through to the House of the Seanad, stopping to appreciate the history of Leinster House as they passed along.
The experience of meeting with and being able to discuss relevant matters with members of Dáil Eireann and the Seanad was an extremely worthwhile experience and both Peter and Jake were delighted with the opportunity to be part of the visit.