The biggest youth political event in the country will take place in Sligo this weekend when Fianna Fáil holds its National Youth Conference at the Radisson Blu Hotel.
More than 500 young political activists – many from Co Donegal – will travel to Sligo for the two-day event, culminating in the election of a new President and Central Officer Board for Ógra Fianna Fáil.
The Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin will open the conference on Friday evening, while party TDs and Senators will chair a range of debates and workshops on youth mental health, youth employment and entrepreneurship and the challenges facing students and graduates. The guest speakers include CEO of Inspire Ireland Elaine Geraghty, Chief Operating Officer of Headstrong Joseph Duffy, former USI President Gary Redmond, Head of Innovation at Sligo IT Niall McEvoy and former Finance Minister Ray MacSharry.
Speaking beforehand, Deputy Martin said, “This is one of the most important events in the Fianna Fáil calendar. We have put a strong emphasis over the past two years on encouraging young people to get involved in politics, whether it is in school, in college, in the workplace or in their communities.
“Too many young people feel disillusioned about politics and disconnected from the decision making process. This conference in Sligo is about giving young people a platform to voice their views on the key issues facing their generation and to debate policies on subjects that have a direct impact on their lives. Whether it is Ógra Fianna Fáil or another political youth organisation, I strongly believe in the benefits of encouraging youth participation in politics. It is only by getting involved and making their voices heard that the younger generation can influence change,” Deputy Martin said.
Fianna Fáil has become the largest youth political organisation in the country, recruiting more than 1,500 additional members at third level institutions nationwide this academic year. The National Youth Conference in Sligo this weekend will bring delegates together to elect a new Ógra Fianna Fáil President, Policy and Campaigns Director, Third Level Organiser and other members of the Central Officer Board.
Sligo Ógra member and conference organiser Kevin Burke, from Tubbercurry, has welcomed the fact that Sligo was chosen as the location.
“There is great excitement and energy within the party about this event, and I am delighted that Sligo was chosen to host it. We have hundreds of young people from every county in the country coming up here for the two days, and I know it will be filled with lively debates and discussions, as well as good fun.
“As a young person, I see the changes that are taking place within Fianna Fáil and the value that is being placed on the views of our younger members. There is great scope for Ógra members to impact on party policy nationally and bring their ideas to the fore. The Sligo conference will be a great example of how the younger generation can effect change,” said Kevin Burke.