Youth Affairs minister James Reilly for Macra awards ceremony
Six finalists will battle it out on February 10 at the Irish Farm Centre in Dublin for the coveted awards, which are organised as part of the organisation’s Leadership Training Programme.
The aim of the programme is to provide opportunities for Macra members to develop the knowledge, attributes, and skills necessary for leadership positions either in Macra or in other voluntary roles or in future occupations.
Each of the six finalists went through a challenging interview process in order to make it to the final.
Yvonne Daly, of Limerick’s Croom Macra, and Michael Moclair, of Fethard Macra, South Tipperary, will line out for Munster on the night.
Also in the running are Tara Fourie, of Tullamore/ Killeigh Macra in Co Offaly, and Niamh Fagan of Ardcath Macra, Meath.
Kieran McEvoy and Gemma Goulding, both of Co Laois’ Mountmellick Macra, will also be hoping for glory.
Macra national president, Kieran O’Dowd said: “We are delighted that Minister Reilly will join us on the night and acknowledge the achievements of our young leaders.
“These young people have shown excellent leadership both within Macra, and within their communities.”
Meanwhile, also hoping for success this weekend will be Macra’s senior debaters.
Round two of the senior debating competition will take place in four venues on Saturday.
Two topics will be debated: “That freedom of speech requires more limits”, and “That farmers should retire at State Contributory Pension age”.
At Sarsfield Pavilion in Glanmire, Midleton will propose the first motion, while Kilmacthomas will oppose it.
The second motion will be proposed by Knockraha and opposed by East Laois.
At Scoil Bride, Sallins Rd, Naas, Co Kildare, the first motion will be proposed by Johnstown/Coolgreaney and opposed by Treble R.
The second motion will be proposed by Naas and opposed by Millstreet.
At Carraroe Hall, Sligo, South Letrim will propose the first motion. Termonfeckin will oppose it.
The second motion will be proposed by Ramor and opposed by Berrings.
At Portlaoise Macra Hall, Co Laois, Carrigaline will propose the first motion while Hill 16 will oppose it. The second motion will be proposed by Kilkenny City and opposed by Clonakilty.
