BA Government first trip to Leinster House!

 Wed Nov 9 2022

        BA Government students from the School of Political Science and Sociology made a much anticipated visit to Leinster House this week, accompanied by the students of the MA in Public Policy. A total of thirty-eight students and three lecturers boarded a 7am bus to Dublin on Wednesday morning to visit the national parliament buildings at Leinster house.

        The group was greeted by Galway West Deputy, Eamon O’Cuiv, and soon commenced a tour of the two houses. Students visited the Dáil chambers, sat in the gallery during the private members bill debates and also were given a tour of the Seanad.

 Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, surprised the group with an impromptu visit during the lunch break. He spent several minutes chatting and taking photographs with the staff and students present and wished them continued success on their programmes and for their futures.

        After lunch, students and staff met with a selection of politicians and professionals who shared stories of their careers in public life followed by a thought-provoking questions and answers session.

        Programme Director of the BA government, Lisa Walshe, commented ‘This was a great opportunity for BA Government students to see theory come to life, to ask questions and engage in discussions varying from the necessity of gender quotas in politics to the complexities of the legislative process.’ We are already looking forward to our visit again next year.’