Congratulations to 3rd Year student Adam Foley who has been elected chairperson of the Fingal Comhairle na nÓg, a group that gives young people a voice on local services and policies. We spoke to him and asked a few questions to get a better understanding of what it is he does as part of the association.
What is the Fingal Comhairle na nÓg?
“The Fingal Comhairle is the main group for youth government in Ireland. There’s one for every region such as Fingal, Dublin City, ect. For me Comhairle is a way to do other events as well, almost like a little agency. I’ve done things in the Seanad and the Dáil – it’s all basically very similar where you all debate on a topic. When we did Seanad na Nollaig, we had a debate on the cost of living. The relevant ministers in the Seanad will then debate the same issue.”
What do you do as part of the Fingal Comhairle?
“I’m the chairperson, I’ve been involved since 2020, when I was in first year. Last year I was vice chairperson so people were happy for me to take that step into the bigger role. I attend meetings with the other members often and we do lots of debates on different topics, such as education, cost of living, covid-19 and lockdowns etc.”
What inspired you to join?
“My mom works in Fingal, so she’d always seen it advertised, and I’ve always had a keen interest in politics and local issues. The fact that you don’t need to be voted on either made me more inclined to join as it was a stressful less process, anyone that wants to join can simply just apply.”
Do you find it difficult to balance your role with school?
“No, the meetings are once a month.. Unless you are doing extra things for example the National Youth Assembly. You need to be very educated going into these meetings, so the committee run preparation sessions as they dive so deep into the topic. One time we had a meeting on AI. There are like two hour meetings on a Saturday which are boring but it’s worth it on the day.”
If you could say something to people that are considering joining what would you say?
“Obviously it’s important to have an interest in what’s involved. You have to go to lots of meeting, zoom calls and go on lots of trips into town and it can be a lot of work. But I’ve really enjoyed my experience doing it and would recommend it to anyone that is thinking of starting.”
If you are interested in becoming a member of Fingal Comhairle na nÓg, you can find them on Instagram (@FingalCNN), Facebook (Fingal Comhairle Na nÓg), Twitter (@FingalComhairle) or you can visit Fingal Comhairle na nÓg for more information.
We wish Adam continued success in his new position!
By Sadhbh Bracken and Murron McGuire, TY Journalism