TY with Lucinda Creighton TD, Leinster House

Transition Year were guests of Lucinda Creighton TD at Leinster House yesterday.

It was a very interesting trip; the usher gave a brief history of the buildings from the home of Fitzgeralds in the 1800s through science lecture theatres of the Royal Dublin Society to its current incarnation as seat of Dáil and Seanad. Students were privileged to witness the Tániste Joan Burton take leaders questions, and heard about a proposed bill to introduce brand-free packaging of cigarettes (similar to Australia). They heard the Govt announce a referendum on removing the offence of blasphemy from the constitution. The Tániste’s response to questions re. recent appointments to IMMA led to some colourful debating across the house.

A brief visit to the Seanad in session was also interesting. At the end of the tour Lucinda Creighton TD explained to TY how she got into politics and emphasised the need for more female participation. She invited all interested to apply for a work experience week with her in Dáil Eireann.