- What made you apply for the role?
I have always loved the Irish language and to get the opportunity to help students understand and learn the language, that’s something I could’ve only dreamed of. As well as this I absolutely adore politics so this is right up my alley.
2. Talk us through your manifesto, and the main thing you’ll work on if elected?
The main part of my manifesto is to implement Irish modules in every STEM course. I did all my years of education through Irish and there was only ever one “science” teacher. He had to teach chemistry, physics and biology, only two of which he studied in college. I think if we could get STEM to be taught as Gaeilge, we could get more people attempting to understand the world around us and, in turn, strengthen the language.
My second point in my manifesto is to extend the “Scéim” to 2nd year students. I think that since the first years’ Scéim worked and is working so well, why can’t we do the same for second years?
The third point in my manifesto was to open up Caifé na Gaeilge fully once again. It’s honestly a disgrace how the most respect a vital space for Irish speakers gets is having two vending machines. I don’t think that’s right and is the university want to hold their “Stráitéis na Gaeilge” in high regard, they should open Caifé na Gaeilge.
Lastly I advocated for the option in the third year of any course, to spend a semester in a Gaeltacht. I think this point is itself self-explanatory but regardless, I want anyone who want’s to engage with the Irish language on a community basis to be allowed to in their second last year.
3. What do you think the greatest obstacle will be in your term, if elected?
I believe that even though we have a great university who’ve got a track record of listening to the student’s needs, we’ll approach issues relating to finances in this union. This is, after all, the reason Caifé na Gaeilge was shut down. I also believe that the stress will be immense, but I would hope any candidate, like myself, is fully equipped to deal with this.
4. What is something you would hope to carry on from the previous officer, if elected?
The current Leas Uachtarán don Ghaeilge has done amazing work and to build on that would be an honour. I suppose the thing I’d most like to continue would be the internship programme she introduced for Irish translators. The EU classifies Irish as a “recognised working language” and to give experience to people seeking a career in translation, or the EU in general, is a godsend.
5. Finally, why do you think people should vote for you?
I think that people should vote for me to see a new, youthful face at the forefront of our union. I’ve already seen other candidates’ manifestos and I’m quite happy with the way things are going. If you vote me, you will receive representation like never before and I will make sure to carve out as much time as is possible to talk to anyone who has concerns. And, who knows, I may spend a lot of time in Caifé na Gaeilge, so you can hold me to account there!
