Larne Grammar pupils tackle EU’s most pressing issues

Larne Grammar School pupils Conor Davis, Jody Nelson and Scott Davidson recently put their debating skills to good use at this years Mock Council of the European Union. INLT 45-675-CON

Scott Davidson, Conor Davis and Jody Nelson, all Sixth Form pupils studying Government and Politics, were taking part in the annual Mock Council of the European Union, representing countries and recreating the environment of a real Council of the EU meeting.

As part of the event – which was attended by pupils from 29 school across Northern Ireland – Larne Grammar represented Lithuania.

Now in its tenth year, the annual event is organised by British Council Northern Ireland and the European Commission Office in Northern Ireland and saw the students tackle two topical issues: foreign policy and youth unemployment.

Chaired by Jane Morrice from the European Economic and Social Committee, the debate saw the pupils question Turkey’s place in the EU, possible sanctions to be placed on Russia and whether Youth Guarantee Funds should be doubled to tackle youth unemployment.

One of the hottest topics of the day was whether or not the United Kingdom should have a referendum on its position within the EU.

Pupil Scott Davidson said: “I’ve had an amazing day debating at Stormont representing Lithuania.

“It’s been great to look at things from a different perspective and learn how other countries in the European Union operate, especially in regards to foreign affairs.”

For more information on the Mock Council visit http://nireland.britishcouncil.org