Gaelcholáiste takes top awards at a Model United Nations assembly in UCC

UCC was a buzz of excitement recently as students from all corners of the country converged on the campus for the National Model United Nations.

All knew that a long weekend of debating awaited but in between there would be plenty of friends to be made and plenty laughs to be had.

MUN is a debating competition where each delegate receives a country and a committee. A topic is chosen, and delegates must research in advance and outline its countries stance on the issue.

Various motions are discussed over the weekend in a light-hearted and humorous manner while maintaining the seriousness of the topic at hand. At the end of the two days delegates come together to write resolutions that are voted on to decide which is the best.

Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí had nine students involved and everybody thoroughly enjoyed the weekend, with two students leaving with awards for their efforts. Sixth-year Conor Ó hOrgáin took the prize of Best Delegate (1st Place) on the UN security council representing France.

Also, I won an Honourable Mention (Third Place) in the UN Human Rights Council representing America.

These feats are quite impressive when you consider that there were twenty people or more on most committees.

All of us were in a jubilant mood as we arrived back in Tralee.

We had an amazing weekend and are looking forward to competing again next year. Also, thanks to Bean D’Altúin who gave up her weekend to travel with us and the organisers in U.C.C who made sure the event ran smoothly.

M.U.N is a great way to increase public speaking skills and I would certainly recommend more schools getting involved next year!

Model United Nation delegates, from left: Aindriú Ó Muimhneacháin, Seán Ó Loingsigh, Aindriú D’Altúin, Ciarán Ó Donnchú, Vince Ó Cathasaigh, Conor Ó hOrgáin, Sorcha Nic Gearailt, Leah Ní Sheanacháin agus Bríd Sionóid.