Deravoy Debating Team was thrilled to win the regional final of the Concern debates again this academic year. It was held in Monaghan Education Centre and there were many supporters from both schools in attendance. We competed against an extremely strong team from Bunscoil Lughaidh in Carrickmacross. The motion was on playgrounds! “All children should have the right to a local playground”. Our team contended that, while Carrickroe is extremely fortunate to have a local playground and while our community worked exceptionally hard to put a playground in place, it doesn’t make it a right. It should be considered a privilege and a luxury.
The adjudicator remarked that the standard of debating was ‘phenomenal’ from both teams. She remarked on the ‘breadth of sources.’ She commented on the amount of preparation, the development of the arguments, the effective rebuttal, the overall delivery that had passion, persuasiveness and great engagement. There was huge joy when she announced the result that the motion was defeated and that Deravoy was successful. The children were presented with their winning medals and a plaque. We are very proud of our team. Táimid fíor bhródúil astu.
The motion for our All Ireland Qualifier was “Climate activists must give up meat.” It was an almost impossible motion to defend. But our team did us really proud on the day. We were disappointed to lose this one. However we wished the opposing team from Glenswilly N.S. Letterkenny the very best of luck as they progressed in the competition.
Overall we had huge success and we have secured back to back regional final wins. Comhghairdeachas to the whole team of fifth and sixth classes, who all contributed to the research and arguments, speeches and refutes and positions of chairperson and timekeeper. A huge team dynamic involvement! We also appreciated the home support with the five different debates against schools from Monaghan and Cavan and Donegal. The Concern debating competition was a wonderful opportunity and experience for the children in Deravoy N.S.
We are grateful to Monaghan Education Centre for coordinating this valuable project. We particularly thank Teresa Mc Sorley, the Director of MEC and Mary Savage for organising this year’s debates. All the children enjoyed the treats on the day which were provided by MEC. Go raibh céad míle maith agaibh uilig! Thanks also to Ruth from Concern Worldwide and to all the adjudicators.
Go mbeirimid beo ar an am seo arís. Doire Bhoithe abú!
