Local Carlow school retains title in School Debating Competition

Kilkenny Education Support Centre, in partnership with Concern Worldwide, proudly celebrates another successful year of the Concern Primary School Debating Competition.

This year, 20 schools from Carlow, Tipperary, and Kilkenny demonstrated their debating skills, engaging in high-quality discussions on pressing global issues.

Now in its twelfth year, the competition continues to develop students’ debating abilities, confidence, and critical thinking while deepening their awareness of global challenges. Among the motions debated this year were:

"Every person in Ireland should be given a bike"
"The arts are key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)"
"We should only buy Fairtrade products"
"Our schools should be paperless"

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The competition reached an exciting conclusion on 7 March in the Kilkenny County Council Chamber, where the grand final debate focused on the motion:
"Cities are essential to tackling climate change."

Two Carlow schools competed for the coveted title:

Newtown Dunleckney National School – last year’s runners-up and former champions, determined to reclaim their crown.

St Brigid’s National School, Bagenalstown – impressive newcomers making their grand final debut.

In a closely contested debate, Dunleckney NS emerged victorious, demonstrating outstanding skill and argumentation.

Reflecting on the competition, John O’Sullivan, Director of Kilkenny Education Support Centre, praised the high standard of debating:
"It is always inspiring to see young students engage so passionately with global issues. The adjudicators were hugely impressed with the quality of debating again this year. We congratulate Dunleckney NS on their well-earned victory and commend both teams for their exceptional performances."

The adjudicators for this year’s final were retired teachers:Marie Stapleton, Betty Brennan, Siobhán Tulloch

Following the debate, Cllr Michael McCarthy, Chairman of Kilkenny County Council, presented awards to the finalists in recognition of their achievements.

Kilkenny Education Support Centre extended its sincere gratitude to Eilís Costelloe, retired teacher and principal, for her invaluable coordination of the competition.

Special thanks also go to the adjudicators, participating schools, teachers, parents, and students for their dedication and enthusiasm.

Last year’s champions, Carrigeen National School (Kilkenny), reached the national semi-final—an inspiration for future participants.