Social Democrats TD for Wicklow-Jennifer Whitmore, yesterday hosted the pupils of Blessington Educate Together National School at Leinster House. The pupils from fifth and sixth class along with their teacher Claire McDermott and student teacher Ciara were ready for the visit with a great variety of questions about what it was like to be a TD, are there secret tunnels in Leinster House and they even asked Deputy Whitmore for debating tips.
On their arrival at Leinster House they were taken for a tour of the houses that included a visit to the Dáil Chamber and the Seanád by the ushers. A special highlight of the tour was when the school were formally welcomed to the Seanad by the Cathaoirleach while it was in session. They were then met by Deputy Whitmore for a questions and answer session in the AV room.
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to host the Educate Together National School from Blessington at Leinster House. As one of the smaller schools in Blessington, it really was lovely to meet a group of young people who are so engaged and interested in politics, how democracy works and their community. They had some wonderful suggestions about projects that they would like to see happen in their local town and I look forward to helping them with these in the near future.”
“Politics needs to be for everyone and it’s something that young people should feel empowered to engage with. For too long politics has been out of reach of young people and it’s encouraging to see the interest of the students of Blessington Educate Together in local issues.
If any other Wicklow schools are interested in coming up to Leinster House for a tour and a question-and-answer session, I’d be more than happy to facilitate them,” concludes Whitmore.
