A delegation from the NUI Galway Business Society recently undertook a two day visit to Dublin, with the highlight being a meeting with An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, T.D., in Leinster House.

Speaking after the meeting with the Taoiseach, the Auditor of the Society, Patrick Conboy said; “An Taoiseach expressed a strong interest in our trip and he was delighted to see that students took the initiative to undertake such a trip”. Mr. Conboy made a presentation of a piece of NUI Galway crystalware to An Taoiseach on behalf of both the society and the University, in acknowledgement of his enormous contribution to the State in light of the current economic environment. Officers of the Society discussed the political matters of the day with a particular emphasis on the pre budget discussions.

The audience with An Taoiseach capped what was an enjoyable day at Leinster House, which saw students on the trip have lunch in the Members Restaurant meeting Deputies and Senators alike. Afterwards, the delegation was brought to both Houses of the Oireachtas and was given the opportunity to sit in on proceedings. Students also met An Tánaiste, Mary Coughlan T.D, the Leader of Fine Gael, and Deputy Enda Kenny, together with various Ministers, Deputies and Senators. In particular, Senators David Norris and Ronan Mullen showed particular delight at the initiative that was taken by students to undertake such an educational trip.

Further visits were also taken to the Central Bank on Dame Street and also the Four Courts. At the Central Bank, participants were given a presentation on the workings of the Economic and Monetary Union and how it is responding to the current financial crisis. At the Four Courts, students sat in on a number of criminal and civil court proceedings.

The highlight of the first day in Dublin was the opportunity given to delegates to attend and participate in RTE’s flagship current affairs programme, ‘The Frontline’. After the show, students met Pat Kenny, the programme’s presenter who expressed a keen interest in our attendance. Students also met with former Taoiseach, Dr. Garret Fitzgerald, and Labour Spokesperson on Finance, Deputy Joan Burton.

Furthermore, Mr. Conboy said “Following the success of this recent BizSoc event, together with the overwhelming interest shown by members, I am seriously considering running a similar trip in the New Year. We had over 150 students apply for this trip alone and we are conscious that we would like to extend this exciting opportunity to as many of our members as possible”.

Those who are interested in taking part in this event should log onto www.nuigbizsoc.com to register their details.