Two highly topical motions and a packed room of supporters set the scene for an engaging evening at Macra’s National Debating Finals, where members showcased the confidence, research and public speaking ability that continue to make debating a cornerstone of the organisation’s competitions calendar for the year.
The novice final tackled a motion that sparked lively discussion: that mobile phones should be made illegal for those under 16.
Portlaoise Macra proposed the motion, outlining concerns around social development, online safety and the impact of screen time on young people.
Bree Macra opposed, defending the role of technology in modern life and arguing for education and responsible use over prohibition. Both teams demonstrated impressive composure and structure in each of their arguments.
On the night, Bree Macra secured the overall title. The winning team comprised Sarah Byrne (chair), Edmund Casey and Mark Waters, with Sarah Byrne also awarded best speaker. Portlaoise Macra, represented by Sheila Keeshan (chair), Éadaoin McEvoy and Cormac Smith, were named runners-up after a strong performance.
The senior final turned its focus to agriculture and the future, as Callan Macra proposed the motion that climate change will destroy the future of Irish agriculture.
The debate explored the adaptability and resilience of the Irish farming sector.
Callan Macra were runners up in the Senior Competition.
Clonakilty Macra, speaking in opposition, presented a robust case highlighting innovation, adaptation and the strength of Irish producers in responding to challenge.
Following a high-quality exchange, Clonakilty Macra claimed the overall title.
The team of Natasha Sutton (chair), Anne Barrett, Áine Tobin and Lucy Anne Edmunds impressed throughout, with Anne Barrett named best speaker.
Callan Macra, represented by Jimmy Lynch (chair), Karen Delaney, Joanne Cushen and Paul Mahon, were worthy runners-up.
The judges praised the exceptionally high standard across both finals, commending the depth of research, clarity of thought and respectful engagement shown by all speakers.
Macra national president Josephine O’Neill congratulated every participant, noting the evident preparation involved and expressing her hope that those in attendance would be inspired to take part in next year’s competition.
On the competition, O’Neill said: “Macra’s debating competition provides members the unique opportunity to develop key skills which are beneficial in every walk of life. I would like to commend all members who participated in every stage of both debating competitions this year. In particular, I’d like to congratulate both Clonakilty and Bree on winning senior and novice debating, respectively.”
Macra extended sincere thanks to the judges for giving of their time and expertise, and congratulated all competitors on an outstanding evening of debate.
Two highly topical motions and a packed room of supporters set the scene for an engaging evening at Macra’s National Debating Finals, where members showcased the confidence, research and public speaking ability that continue to make debating a cornerstone of the organisation’s competitions calendar for the year.
The novice final tackled a motion that sparked lively discussion: that mobile phones should be made illegal for those under 16.
Portlaoise Macra proposed the motion, outlining concerns around social development, online safety and the impact of screen time on young people.
Bree Macra opposed, defending the role of technology in modern life and arguing for education and responsible use over prohibition. Both teams demonstrated impressive composure and structure in each of their arguments.
On the night, Bree Macra secured the overall title. The winning team comprised Sarah Byrne (chair), Edmund Casey and Mark Waters, with Sarah Byrne also awarded best speaker. Portlaoise Macra, represented by Sheila Keeshan (chair), Éadaoin McEvoy and Cormac Smith, were named runners-up after a strong performance.
The senior final turned its focus to agriculture and the future, as Callan Macra proposed the motion that climate change will destroy the future of Irish agriculture.
The debate explored the adaptability and resilience of the Irish farming sector.
Callan Macra were runners up in the Senior Competition.
Clonakilty Macra, speaking in opposition, presented a robust case highlighting innovation, adaptation and the strength of Irish producers in responding to challenge.
Following a high-quality exchange, Clonakilty Macra claimed the overall title.
The team of Natasha Sutton (chair), Anne Barrett, Áine Tobin and Lucy Anne Edmunds impressed throughout, with Anne Barrett named best speaker.
Callan Macra, represented by Jimmy Lynch (chair), Karen Delaney, Joanne Cushen and Paul Mahon, were worthy runners-up.
The judges praised the exceptionally high standard across both finals, commending the depth of research, clarity of thought and respectful engagement shown by all speakers.
Macra national president Josephine O’Neill congratulated every participant, noting the evident preparation involved and expressing her hope that those in attendance would be inspired to take part in next year’s competition.
On the competition, O’Neill said: “Macra’s debating competition provides members the unique opportunity to develop key skills which are beneficial in every walk of life. I would like to commend all members who participated in every stage of both debating competitions this year. In particular, I’d like to congratulate both Clonakilty and Bree on winning senior and novice debating, respectively.”
Macra extended sincere thanks to the judges for giving of their time and expertise, and congratulated all competitors on an outstanding evening of debate.
SHARING OPTIONS