North Down Question Time

Students from across North Down gathered to question local politicians on the issues that matter most to them.

The Integrated Education Fund (IEF) and Priory Integrated College (IC), Holywood, were delighted to host ‘North Down Question Time’ on 06 November.  

The event opened with a warm welcome from Priory IC’s Acting Principal Heather Ferguson. 

Heather commented on the event:

“We were delighted to host such a thought-provoking event at our school.  As an Integrated school, we recognise the importance of providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful discussion and informed debate on the issues that matter most to them.  This event offered an excellent platform to spark those conversations and encourage young people to have their voices heard.  We would like to thank all the politicians who gave their time to take part and engage in such open, honest and constructive dialogue with our students.”

Paul Collins, Head of Public Affairs and Advocacy at the IEF, provided an overview of the event.  Attendees then heard from Lucinda Millar, Secretary of the Integrated AlumNI and Bill White from LucidTalk, Belfast Polling and Market Research company.

The debate featured a panel of local MLAs and Councillors from across the political spectrum.  The panel included Chris Hazzard MP (Sinn Féin), Anthony Flynn (Green Party), Connie Egan MLA (Alliance Party), Stephen Dunne MLA (DUP), Daniel Connolly (Aontú), Linzi McLaren (SDLP) and Alan Chambers (UUP).

Paul Collins, Head of Public Affairs and Advocacy at the IEF, said:

“First, we must thank Priory IC for hosting this engaging and important event. 

‘North Down Question Time’ forms part of the IEF’s ongoing work to promote informed political engagement among young people and to provide students with meaningful opportunities to interact directly with their elected representatives.  We look forward to continuing to facilitate and encourage these important conversations.”