PAST Vs PRESENT DEBATE

A packed Lecture Hall enjoyed an excellent Debate last night as the Past Team of Kevin Heavey (class of 2014), Hugo MacNeill (class of 1977),
Neil Francis (class of 1981), Fergus Slattery (class of 1966) and Alex Owens (class of 2011) shaded the School Team of Joshua Kieran Glennon, Tomás Beecham, Joshua Gorman Climax (all 6th Year), Stephen Rooney and Ben Jordan (both 5th Year) in upholding the Motion that:

‘THIS HOUSE BELIEVES THAT PROFESSIONALISM HAS DESTROYED THE SPIRIT OF SPORT’.

The Judges – Mr Sheil, Ms Kelleher and Eoin Healy (class of 2010) – ruled in favour of the Past, the Audience in favour of the Present students – it was that close.

This was Debating at its best with many great speeches, humourous and incisive. The President of the Union in his opening remarks likened Debating to sport. Well, this was sport at its finest. The audience was well rewarded for their attendance and was richly entertained. The Speakers earned their respect and deserved their generous applause.

I thank the Judges, Chairman Mr Dermot Kelly (class of 1981) Time keeper, Scott Donohoe (Transition Year), the Speakers, our College Union President, Mr Shane Murphy (class of 1981), and the audience of students, past and present, members of the community, parents and staff who all contributed to a memorable night.