Press Room
National Forum On Europe / Macra na Feirme Debating Competition Launched
Macra's national debating competition, which has been running for over fifty years, is one of the more popular events in the organisation's programme for members. The National Forum On Europe has this year teamed up with Macra to promote debate on the EU amongst rural young people in Ireland.
Teams competing at county and national levels consist of four members with each person speaking for six minutes. The overall prize is a place for the national winning team on Macra's prizewinners' trip abroad later in the year.
Speaking at the launch, Senator Maurice Hayes, chairman of the National Forum On Europe, said:
'The National Forum On Europe was set up over five years ago to promote debate on European Union issues. Promoting debate among young people on the issues that will affect their lives is an important part of what we do.'
'We are delighted to have this opportunity to join with Macra na Feirme, an active Member of the Forum, in promoting debate in rural communities. Ireland's future in the European Union will be shaped by the knowledge, understanding and ability to persuade of our young people. Active engagement in the debates on the European Union is critical.'
Macra national president Colm Markey said that the debating competition enabled individuals to develop the key skills necessary for the presentation of an argument, such as critically appraising an opposing view and being able to think clearly and speak persuasively. He thanked the National Forum On Europe for their support of the event and said he looked forward to some lively debates over the coming months.
Mr Markey also pointed out that the closing date for teams to enter to the competition is 7 February 2007.
First rounds of the national debating competition will take place at various locations around the country on March 3. Second rounds take place on March 24 and the national semi-finals will be held on April 20.
The national final of the event will be held at Macra na Feirme's AGM in the Boyne Valley Hotel in Drogheda on 12 May.
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