News

MA Public Policy students from the School of Political Science and Sociology made a field trip to Dublin on 11th October, accompanied by students from the MA Gender, Rights and Globalisation, and MA in Political Science and Sociology. 17 students and 2 lecturers boarded the 7.30am train to Dublin on Wednesday morning to visit the Oireachtas buildings at Leinster house.          

The group was greeted by Galway West Deputy Mairéad Farrell, who sponsored our visit, and policy advisor Cillian Doyle. The group was then welcomed to the Sinn Féin party room where the students had an insightful Q&A session with Mairéad, who shared her views and experiences in a frank manner. We then visited the Dáil chambers and sat in the gallery during Leaders’ questions and witnessed some intense debate.  

After lunch we visited the Department of Rural and Community Development at Trinity Point, where we were welcomed by Principal Officer Andrew Forde. The afternoon was filled with presentations on the role and functions of the department, the implementation of Ireland’s National Rural Development Policy, and evidence informed policy-making. There was time for questions and answers, and the civil servants also shared stories of their careers in public life. 

Lecturer in Public and Social Policy Hanna-Kaisa Hoppania commented ‘This was a great opportunity for MA students to gain insight into the functioning of the political process in real life, to ask questions and engage in discussions about careers in civil service.’ 

Leaving Leinster House after following an intense debate during Leaders' questions in the Dáil‌

Group Photo outside Leinster House‌