Kildare delegates shine at Ógra Fianna Fáil conference

MEMBERS of North Kildare Ógra Fianna Fáil have returned home after a high-energy and memorable weekend at the Ógra Fianna Fáil National Youth Conference (NYC) and the celebration of the organisation’s 50th anniversary. The days were packed with debate, policymaking, and celebration, our delegates are now enjoying some well-deserved rest.

Kildare had strong representation at the top table this year, with Cian Domican re-elected to the Central Officer Board (COB) and Leanne Mallen, from south Kildare, making history as the newly elected Uachtaráin Ógra Fianna Fáil. It’s a proud moment for the branch to see two local members take on national leadership roles within the organisation.

The delegation also led the charge on the policy front, with three important motions passed at this year’s conference including a call on the government to amend the Primary Medical Certificate scheme so the fuel allowance includes those using electric vehicles along with a call for the education minister to reform the July provision scheme for teachers and SNAs.

There was also a motion for the mandate for the department of health and HSE to increase awareness around breast density through a dedicated public campaign, and to make reporting on breast density standard practice following BreastCheck screenings.

Speaking about the latter motion, Eoin Crehan, who presented it to the conference, said: “I'm really proud to have spoken on this motion, it's something tangible that we can do here and now to make a real impact in women's lives. I'll be bringing this to our local TDs James Lawless and Naoise Ó Cearúil to hopefully raise this in the Dáil to implement it!”