Dublin and Limerick schools to debate whether the world is more equal now than in 1985, as Concern Debates mark 40 years

Press release29 April 2025

Ellie McCabe from Sandford Park School, Ranelagh in Dublin takes to the podium at the Concern All Debate semi-finals. Photo: Karen Morgan/Concern Worldwide

The All-Ireland Concern Debates final takes place this Thursday, (1st May) at the Helix in Dublin City University, as the country’s largest debating competition turns 40 this year.

Students from Laurel Hill Secondary School FCJ in Limerick City and Sandford Park School in Ranelagh, Dublin will face each other. Sandford Park will propose the motion, ‘The world is more equal now than it was 40 years ago’, with Laurel Hill opposing.

More than 150 secondary schools entered this year’s competition, with the finalists competing in eight debates to reach the finals. Both the MC on the night and debate chairperson are former Concern debaters.

“In the current age we live in, the ability to think critically, consider and present alternative viewpoints, and thoroughly research a subject is essential for our young people to be well informed and active members of society. A programme like this enables them to develop these skills, and we’re incredibly impressed and proud of all the young people who take part”, said Lauren Wright, head of Global Citizenship at Concern.

Both teams participating in the final will receive an educational trip of their choice to either Dublin or Belfast, with the winners spending two nights in their chosen city, while the runners up will spend one.

Concern Debates is an all-island Global Citizenship Education programme funded by Irish Aid and run by Concern for school teams to debate world issues such as poverty and climate change with volunteer judges deciding which team wins.

The programme, which is open to schools from all 32 counties, was created in 1984 by Concern to encourage debate and critical thinking about global issues. A version for primary schools was introduced in 2013 which engages over 220 primary schools across the island of Ireland each year.

Well-known past participants of the competition include Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe, broadcaster Claire Byrne and journalist Brian O’Donovan.

Any school interested in taking part, or anyone who would like to learn more about volunteering a couple of hours across the school year as an adjudicator, can email debates@concern.net.

For further information contact Eilis Staunton, Media Relations Officer, Concern Worldwide, at eilis.staunton@concern.net or +353 85 872 0720.