fianna fáil national youth conference 2011 clár

PROGRAMMEOF EVENTSFRIDAY 4TH NOVEMBER5pm REGISTRATION OPENING Main Hotel Reception

7pm-7.15pm WELCOME ADDRESS Senator Thomas Byrne Cathaoirleach Ógra Regency Suite 2 7.15pm-7.30pm OFFICIAL OPENING Cllr. Terry Shannon Lord Mayor of Cork Regency Suite 2

7.30pm-8.15pm HUSTINGS (Regional & Third Level) Regency Suite 2

8.15pm-9.15pm ‘WHAT SHOULD FIANNA FÁIL STAND FOR?’ Ógra Town Hall style meeting with Party Leader Micheál Martin TD Regency Suite 2

9.30pm-10.30pm HUSTINGS (National Positions) Regency Suite 2

10.45pm ENTERTAINMENT Roaring Forties Band Lobby Bar, Main Hotel

SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER8.45am – 10am POLLING IN CENTRAL OFFICER BOARD ELECTIONS Regency Suite 1

10am – 11am ORGANISATIONAL MOTIONS WORK SHOP Regency Suite 2

11am-12.30pm JOB CREATION: DRIVING IRELAND’S FUTURE Regency Suite 2

12.30pm-1.30pm POLICY MOTIONS WORKSHOP 1 Regency Suite 2

1.30pm-2.15pm BREAK FOR LUNCH

2.15pm-3.45pm ‘IS EDUCATION DELIVERING OPPORTUNITY?’ Regency Suite 2

3.45pm-4.45pm POLICY MOTIONS WORKSHOP 2 Regency Suite 2

4.45pm-5.15pm CONFERENCE CLOSING CEREMONY Speeches from the outgoing Cathaoirleach and Leas-Cathaoirleach Regency Suite 2

5.15pm COUNTING OF BALLOTS Central Officer Board Elections Tara Suite

7.30pm CONFERENCE GALA BANQUET Keynote Speakers: Micheál Martin TD Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil Cllr. David McGuinness, Dublin West

Entertainment from Blue Moose Regency Suite

SECURITY NOTICE: All attendees must wear their conference pass at all times. Please contact registration if you have any queries.

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Message fromMicheál Martin TDUachtarán Fhianna Fáil

Ba mhaith liom fáilte a chur romhaibh ar fad anseo Cois Laoi le haghaidh an Chomhdháil seo. Tá mé cinnte go mbeidh an Comhdháil seo fiúntach agus ta-itneamhach.

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to Cork for the Fianna Fáil National Youth Conference. This is my first Ógra conference as Leader of Fianna Fáil. I hope to meet you all over the three days as we discuss the important challenges facing Ireland and our party. The theme ‘Looking to the Future’ is positive and constructive.

I am particularly looking forward to the sessions on job creation and the im-portance of education. These are core values of Fianna Fáil and why people get involved with our party. Every person in Ireland should have access to a proper education so that they have a better chance to get a job and contribute to their families and communities.

It was during the period of 1974 / 75 that a specific youth section of Fianna Fáil was established. Fianna Fáil was actually the first political party in Ireland to recognise the need for a youth wing and a major platform to expand political debate.

De Valera and Lemass saw Fianna Fáil as a republican organisation, a unifying force in Irish life and a vehicle for progressive politics. This message should not be lost on us as we seek now to revitalise our party and bring new energy and ideas to it. Indeed we have a unique opportunity to recommit ourselves, in this time of renewal, to that vision and sense of purpose.

As our party seeks to modernise and move forward there are many lessons we can take from the work undertaken in Ógra. The past decade has seen significant innovation in Ógra, as members sought to increase the profile and role of young people in politics. As the medium of online communications grew, Ógra has uti-lised new technologies to communicate with members and reach out to people. This was very effective in last year’s ‘Holiday at Home’ campaign where there was significant support to highlight the great attractions we have in our country and the need for people to support the domestic economy and local jobs as much as they can.

Since becoming Leader I have visited most of the constituencies around the country. I am truly heartened by the enthusiasm and the determination that I have seen from our thousands of members. We have had very lengthy and open discussions. I wanted to have something in our party which has been missing for too many years - a genuine dialogue between the members and the leadership of Fianna Fáil. I want to continue to hear the views of our members – in every constituency and on all of the issues.

We have to be a party that is open to new ideas and new thinking so we can best respond to the challenges of an ever-changing Ireland. I want to lead a party where every member is valued equally and every member can make their own distinct contribution to what Fianna Fáil stands for. This is how we will deliver for the Irish people.

If you have not contributed your views already please do so at [email protected]

If we are to get this party back on track we need to listen to our members and to rebuild trust. There is no doubt this year has been the most difficult in our history.

All our efforts, in restructuring the banking system, in stabilising the public fi-nances and in reducing costs, were driven by the absolute priority of getting sus-tainable growth back into the economy, creating the jobs we badly need. These decisions did cause hardship and the people felt angry and voted accordingly.

It is ironic that the Government is accepting praise from our EU partners for implementing the budget both Fine Gael and Labour trenchantly opposed, voted against and campaigned against in February. They fought the election with a list of promises that they have already broken.

Fianna Fáil is a republican party, proud to be Irish and dedicated to Ireland’s prosperity within a prosperous Europe. We believe in a united Ireland, in making education a priority and promoting the balanced development of both urban and rural communities.

Ireland has a bright future and our people have shown courage over many past generations and will continue to do so. We have one of the youngest and most educated populations in the EU. Our policy of having an export led recovery is working. Ireland’s exports are continuing to grow and will grow further when the European financial crisis is resolved.

Fianna Fáil will play a constructive role in opposition but we will also hold the Government to account. We have brought forward significant proposals includ-ing those on corporate donations and the need for a comprehensive package of measures to help people with mortgage and debt problems.

Each and every one of us can contribute to bringing Fianna Fáil back to a stronger position. I encourage you all to get politically active in your areas of work, col-lege and communities.

For those of you contesting elections this weekend I wish you well.

Ógra always brings a particular vibrancy and energy to debates. Your contribu-tions are active, constructive and valued. I suspect this weekend will be no dif-ferent and I’m really looking forward to it.

Is mise, le meas

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Message from Senator Thomas Byrne Cathaoirleach Ógra Fhianna Fail

Is mór an onóir dom fáilte a chur roimh chuile duine go Corcaigh don Comhdháil Náisiúnta na n-Óg Fhianna Fáil. Tagamid le cheile inamanna diffríula ach tagamid le cheile mar pháirtí aontaithe. As Cathaoirleach Ógra, I want to welcome everyone to the Ógra Fianna Fáil Na-tional Youth Conference 2011 here in Cork City. Since we last gathered in Bun-doran in November 2009, our party like our country has gone through significant change. However, like our country, our party will rise again and reclaim the trust of the Irish people For many of you, this is your first National Youth Conference as you have only recently joined Ógra in college and to you; I extend a big Céád Míle Fáilte. The rebuilding of our party has started and I thank you for joining us. To those of you who are taking part in elections to the Central Officer Board or taking part in the Gobnait O’Connell Award for Ógra of the Year, I sincerely wish you well. To endeavour to lead Ógra is a serious task but I am confident that all those nominated to contest the elections are up to the task and will do a won-derful job. Ar aghaidh libh!! Since we last gathered, a new Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil has been elected. Micheál Martin has been very clear in his support for Ógra Fianna Fáil since his own time as Cathaoirleach Ógra and even more so since his election as Party Leader. I know that you will all want to join me in wishing him well as Leader. In only 10 months, he has shown an incredible work ethic and commitment to restoring Fianna Fáil. General Election 2011As you are all aware, our party suffered significant loses last February. Despite our losses, I was heartened to see many Ógra members canvassing in my own constituency of Meath East and from hearing from my colleagues, this was rep-licated right across the country. A number of young TDs, such as Charlie McCo-nalogue in Donegal North East and Robert Troy in Longford–Westmeath, were elected for the first time last February. This, in addition to the large number of young members of Seanad Éireann, has created a very positive dynamic within the Parliamentary Party and it is something that I am keen to see utilised in the course of the reorganisation and revitalisation of Ógra Fianna Fáil. Over the past five weeks, many hundreds of members of Fianna Fáil and in partic-ular Ógra members, travelled to Dublin West to help the party’s youngest County Councillor and indeed an Ógra member himself, David McGuiness in his Bye Elec-tion campaign. This was a phenomenal campaign and I want to personally thank all those who travelled to give David a hand. The resilience of our young members knows no bounds and this was demonstrated by the strong recruitment figures from our Third Level institutes over the past 3 months. New Ógra StructuresAs we are all well aware, the Ard Comhairle has approved a new structure for Ógra. A new Central Officer Board take office this weekend with the first ever leader of Ógra – Uachtarán Ogra being elected. With directly elected directors and regional organisers, we have streamlined the decision making process within Ógra and with the advent of the National Council of Ógra, we will create a de-liberative body for Ógra CDC’s and Third Level Cumainn to discuss issues and policies in a structured and coherent fashion.

Ógra Fianna Fáil belongs to its members. As such it should be guided and led by the members. The new structures realise that goal and I urge every member to get involved and to stay involved. Our party needs young people to come to the fore and bring their dynamism and enthusiasm. Party ReorganisationAs many of you are aware, the senior party is undergoing a period of significant renewal and reorganisation. Everything is on the table and Ógra must play its part in shaping our party’s future. I urge each and every member to take part in the conversation about our party’s future. You have the opportunity to shape our party and ensure that the voices of young people are heard loud and clear. Thank YouI want to thank everybody who served on the National Youth Committee over the past two years. It was an unusually long term of office and I want to sincerely express my gratitude for all their hard work and commitment. Our inspirational Youth Officer, Brian Doyle has gone on to pastures new and I wish him well in the world of medicine. We all owe him our thanks and praise for his brilliant work over the past two years. Looking to the FutureWe all have the capacity to shape our future. By joining Ógra Fianna Fáil, whether two years ago or even two months, you made a statement. It is clear that we have a big job of work to do in order to win back the trust of the Irish people but I am certain that the will is among our members and I want to urge you all to join me, the Parliamentary Party, our Councillors and members throughout the 32 counties in shaping Fianna Fáil into the party we all want it to be. Ar aghaidh leis an obair - Ar aghaidh le Ógra Fianna Fáil

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Message from Seán Dorgan, General Secretary

I am delighted to welcome you to Cork for our National Youth Conference. I am particularly pleased to welcome those of you who have joined Ógra Fianna Fáil since our last conference in Bundoran. I hope that this, your first youth confer-ence, will be both a productive and enjoyable one and will be the first of many! This year has been a most challenging one for Fianna Fáil. After this year’s gen-eral election, our leader, Micheal Martin TD, committed himself to the renewal of Fianna Fáil. Clearly, there is much work to be done and it will take some time. However, we have started this important work. Micheal’s national tour of the organisation is nearly complete. To date, he has met with many thousands of members, including many Ógra members in each constituency, listening to their concerns and suggestions. In addition, the Party is currently considering and dis-cussing significant proposals for organisational reform. One of the central recom-mendations is that the organisation moves to a one member one vote system. These proposals will be considered by next February’s Ard Fheis and, if adopted, will open up our organisation and put the member at its centre. The renewal work is continuing across all strands of the party. Our objective is to strengthen our organisation, modernise and professionalise it, opening it up to new members and providing opportunities to people who want to serve their communities. Fianna Fáil must become a campaigning organisation, active and strong again in all com-munities across Ireland – both urban and rural.

A central plank in our renewal strategy has to be an active and campaigning Ógra Fianna Fáil. I congratulate you on taking the first steps in your own renewal earlier this year. I believe that the changes, evident this weekend, will greatly enhance your effectiveness as an organisation. I wish all candidates for election well and congratulate the incoming Uachtarán and his committee. I wish them well and I look forward to working with, and supporting them in every way I can. I encour-age them – and you - to continue to grow and renew Ógra. Ógra should be a campaigning and questioning organisation. I encourage you to consider the following questions: How will Ógra contribute to the renewal of the party on an ongoing basis? What can we do to expand its appeal? How do we ensure that Ógra is active in every constituency and is representative of Irish young people, actively campaigning on the issues that are their issues? These are questions which I encourage you to consider over this weekend and beyond. Be assured of my support in that journey.

Finally, I wish to sincerely thank Senator Thomas Byrne, outgoing Cathaoireach of Ógra and Joe O’Neill, your outgoing Leas Cathaoirleach. Both displayed great commitment to the ideals of Ógra and made a great contribution to its leadership and development. I also wish to acknowledge the contribution of Brian Doyle, our outgoing National Youth Officer. Brian brought great energy, determination and hard work to his role. He made a real difference and will be missed. I know you will join with me in thanking him for everything he’s done over the years and in wishing him well with his studies and future career.

I wish you a successful and enjoyable conference. I look forward to meeting with you and hearing your views over the course of the weekend.

Message from Brian Doyle, National Youth OfficerI want to extend a big welcome to all delegates and visitors to the National Youth Conference 2011 in Cork. The weekend ahead is packed with opportunities to take advantage of. In addition to the conference workshops, three seminars have been organised focused on the conference theme of ‘Looking to the Future’. We have some great panellists taking part over the course of the weekend. I encourage you to participate fully during the conference. For those members who are contesting elections during the weekend, I wish you well.

This will be my last National Youth Conference as National Youth Officer. It has been a pleasure and privilege to work in Fianna Fáil and I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the members and public representatives, for the courtesy you have extended to me over the past two years. In particular, I want to thank the Cathaoirleach Ógra, Senator Thomas Byrne, the Leas Cathao-irleach Joe O’Neill and members of the National Youth Committee. It has been a pleasure to work alongside you on the development of Ógra since our last confer-ence in Bundoran in November 2009. I also want to thank our General Secretary Seán Dorgan, Director of Organisation Aidan O’Gorman and all the staff on Lower Mount Street for their help and commitment to Ógra. They have been a valuable sounding board since taking up my role in August 2009.

Our Party Leader Micheál Martin is a very enthusiastic supporter of Ógra. He has shown great faith and belief in young people since being elected Leader in February. I believe he has the correct vision to lead Fianna Fáil where it needs to go and we as members must support him in order to achieve this. I want to encourage all our members to get involved both in their communities and in their local organisations. Politics is about participation. “Decisions are made by those who show up”.

Finally, I want to thank Brendan Hayes, Debbie O’Neill, Mary Rose Desmond, the local organising committee and the Cork South Central organisation for the great job they have done in helping to organise the National Youth Conference 2011. I look forward to meeting you over the course of the conference.

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Message from Brendan HayesLocal Organising Committee

It is a great privilege to welcome you to the National Youth Conference 2011, at the Silversprings Moran Hotel, Cork.

It has been two years since we last met for a national conference and much has changed in the economy, society and in our party since that time. This weekend presents us all with an opportunity to reflect on all that happened while putting together a framework for change that will galvanise Ogra Fianna Fail for the future.With this in mind, I hope you will join with me in making this weekend’s Youth Conference a turning-point in our party’s recent history. I know that I speak on behalf of members across the country when I say that we are stronger together and we need to leave the Conference in Cork with boundless enthusiasm but also with a realistic plan and with a common-purpose.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Ogra members from the Donogh O’Malley Cumann in UCC and from across all constituencies in Cork city and county for their help over the past few weeks in pulling this weekend together. Organising the Conference has instilled a new vigour in members locally and we all hope that you thoroughly enjoy the weekend’s programme.

Finally, a special word of thanks to the outgoing National Youth Officer, Brian Doyle, for the incredible amount of work he put in to making this Conference a reality. Brian has been instrumental in putting together the new structures for Ogra and has been the back-bone of the organisation since he took up the role little over two years ago. We must also thank the offices of Uachtarán Fianna Fail Micheal Martin TD and Party Spokesman on Finance, Michael McGrath TD as well as the local organisation in Cork South Central for the boundless energy and time they have all devoted into making this weekend possible.

I have no doubt that you are going to thoroughly enjoy this weekend and I hope to see you over the course of the Conference.

Conference Gala Banquet7.30pm, Saturday 5th November 2011Regency Suite, Silver Springs Moran Hotel

Tickets €30Limited number of tickets available from the Registration Desk.

Entertainmentfrom

& DJ

Keynote Speakers:

Micheál Martin TDUachtarán Fhianna Fáil

Cllr. David McGuinnessDublin West

Conference Gala Banquet7.30pm, Saturday 5th November 2011Regency Suite, Silver Springs Moran Hotel

Tickets €30Limited number of tickets available from the Registration Desk.

Entertainmentfrom

& DJ

Keynote Speakers:

Micheál Martin TDUachtarán Fhianna Fáil

Cllr. David McGuinnessDublin West

ÓGRA FIANNA FÁIL REVIEW 2010/11Joe O’NeillLeas Cathaoirleach

This has been the longest term of any Youth Committee and the events which we have witnessed have been unparalleled in recent Irish history. Since our last con-ference in November 2009, Fianna Fail has been through a period of huge turmoil. During that time, we in Ógra have sought to play a constructive role both putting forward innovative policy solutions to the economic crisis which has enveloped our country. In the pages that follow I will outline some of the activities which have shaped this term.

Following the General Election in February, Ógra has led the way in advancing the renewal of Fianna Fáil. We have shown that we are not afraid to critically examine ourselves and reform to meet the challenges we face. At the National Youth Con-ference in Bundoran in November 2009, I stated that reform of Ógra would be the priority of my term of office if I was elected as Leas Cathaoirleach. I am proud to be able to say that these reforms have now been completed. These reforms have been radical and transformative and long overdue. The incoming Central Officer Board will now have full control of Ógra’s destiny, independent of the senior party. No longer will Ógra be headed by a member of the Parliamentary Party and I am also the last “Leas Cathaoirleach” henceforth the person you the members, elect will be the Uachtarán Ógra Fhianna Fáil and will be its leader both in title and fact!

This conference, hosted by Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil Michael Martin and Cork Ógra, is our chance as young members of Fianna Fáil to show that we are willing to play our part in reforming Fianna Fáil. We must show that we are unafraid to critically face up to the serious mistakes the party has made in the past and ensure they are never repeated in the future.

It was an honour of the highest order to serve as your Leas Cathaoirleach for the past 2 terms. Since joining Cumann De Barra in N.U.I.G in September 2006 and having served in many positions and on 3 youth committees it was a privilege to represent Ógra nationally both internally within the party and externally on the national stage.

I want to thank all of the members of the Youth Committee for their hard work and dedication over the last term. I would also like to thank you the members for all your efforts in giving so freely of your time and energy to Ógra. Finally I would like to thank everyone who has put themselves forward for election to the Central Of-ficer Board this weekend. Irrespective of who wins the elections, these individuals have shown great dedication and commitment to Ógra and are to be commended. We can rest assured that the future of Ógra is in good hands.

It is with great pleasure that I present to this conference the annual review on the activities of the Youth Committee in the time since our last conference in Bundoran in November 2009.

NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE 2009

The 2009 National Youth Conference took place in the Great Northern Hotel in Bundoran on November 11th and 12th. The Conference was hosted by Donegal South West Ógra. A thoroughly enjoyable weekend was had by delegates from across the organisation. An Taoiseach and members of the senior party were in attendance, taking on board the issues and concerns raised by our member-ship and the conference theme of ‘Renewal’ was discussed and debated. Guest speakers at the three Conference Seminars included Noel Brett from the Road Safety Authority, John Herlihy from Google and Rita Shah of Shabra Plastics. The Conference was a great success, with over 1,000 people passing through over the course of the weekend.

Policy development is the lifeblood of any political organisation and Ógra has been particularly active in the area of policy since the last Youth Conference.It goes without saying that the primary focus of all public policy at the present time is on the economy and job creation. Ógra led the way in the development of ideas in this area with our groundbreaking document on combating youth un-employment.

This document, published in early 2010, was widely praised by government and received much positive comment both within the Fianna Fáil organisation and externally. Ideas contained in the document, particularly in the area of intern-ships and job placement opportunities, were adopted by the government, in what was a major achievement for Ógra.

Ógra also published a pre-budget submission in November 2010, which was launched in a high profile briefing in Leinster House attended by the then Min-ister for Finance, our late colleague Brian Lenihan. In addition to the formal pro-posals contained in the submission, the event also provided an opportunity for individual Ógra members to raise proposals and concerns with Brian directly.

Ógra’s policy objectives were not confined to the economic field. Our docu-ment on marriage equality put us at the forefront of progressive ideas within Irish youth politics and generated much debate within the party. While the Civil Partnership Bill which the Fianna Fáil government enacted did not go as far as we in Ógra would have liked, we hope that our proposals will contribute to the development of policy in this area within the Fianna Fáil organisation.

As well as formal policy documents and launches, the National Youth Commit-tee through its Policy Coordinators played an important role in informally raising issues with the senior party and passing on the views and concerns of the Ógra membership.

The members of Ógra are the ultimate arbiters of what becomes our organisa-tion’s policy and I am glad to say we have involved them at every stage of the policy development process. Email and web consultations have played an impor-tant role in this and we look forward to developing mechanisms for involving the membership further in the future. The introduction of the new, directly elected National Policy and Campaigns Director will greatly assist the consistent devel-opment of relevant policy and campaigns at this critical time for Ógra and Fianna Fáil generally.

OGRA WEBSITE

The Ógra website was in urgent need of updating and early in our term the Youth Committee recognised that it was necessary for it to be improved up to the highest standard. To achieve this Blue State Digital were commissioned to de-velop our new website. Following extensive consultation with members the new website was unveiled in January 2010. Our new online infrastructure has greatly improved our communications capability. One of the challenges facing the new committee is how to utilise this valuable platform to its full capacity.

UNDOCUMENTED IRISHOn March 16th 2010 Ógra launched its petition to US President Barack Obama in support of the government’s efforts to gain legal status for the undocumented Irish in America. This was the first time that Ógra engaged in an online based campaign.

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HAITIAN APPEAL

In response to the Haitian Earthquake disaster, members of Ógra Fianna Fáil played their role in responding to the Humanitarian crisis. Units all across the country raised monies by organising street collections, table quizzes and bag packing events. In total, Ógra raised over €12,500 which went directly to Con-cern’s Haitian Appeal fund. A big thank you to all the units who participated.

HOLIDAY AT HOME CAMPAIGN 2010

Throughout the month of June 2010, Ógra embarked on a month of campaigning to encourage the public to book a break at home in Ireland that summer. Central to Ógra Fianna Fáil’s campaign was a high visibility tour which took place from the 11th to the 14th of June. This tour encompassed visits to the counties of Clare, Cork, Dublin , Fermanagh, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, Meath, Monaghan and Sligo and involved visits to the key tourist attractions in those counties such as Newgrange and the Cliffs of Moher. Over 200 Ógra members participated on the various legs of the Tour. Central to the campaign was high impact local me-dia targeting through the many photo opportunities arranged by local Ógra units.

BELFAST SUMMER SCHOOL 2010

In 2009, Ógra held its inaugural Summer School in Derry and following on from its success it was decided to make this a staple of the Ógra calendar. On the weekend of the 6th to the 8th of August, Ógra held its summer school in Queens University Belfast. The Summer school featured seminars on Political Reform, the Economy and Republicanism in the 21st century. Speakers included Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey, Dr. Elaine Byrne, Tim O’Connor ex Secretary General of the Civil Service, and Sean Gallagher, business man and entrepreneur.

DUBLIN SUMMER SCHOOL 2011

On August 6th 2011, Ógra held its 3rd Annual Summer School in the Camden Court Hotel. The Summer School examined a number of topics such as “Renew-ing our Economy: Where are the jobs of the future going to come from? which featured speakers such as Aebhric McGibney Director of Policy from the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. In our second session we examined the topic of Reform-ing Politics: The balance of power between the Oireachtas, Government and Civil Service which included speakers such as Dr. Eddie Molloy and Sean Fleming TD The annual Ógra Summer Barbeque took place that evening with over 100 Ógra members in attendance.

The training day is aimed at all current and aspiring Ógra Officer Board members nationwide. Workshops include:

• Organisation• New Media, Blogging & Press• Policy & Campaigns• Local fundraising ideas, Accounting & SIPO

For more please contact Brian Doyle, National Youth Officer at [email protected]

Officer TrainingCamden Court Hotel, Camden Street, Dublin 2

12pm-4pm • Saturday 3rd July 2010

SummerSchool

Queens University Belfast6th-8th August 2010

A great opportunity for members to come together to listen and debate various topics.

For more please contact Joseph O’Neill at [email protected]

RADICAL OVERHAUL FOR ÓGRA FIANNA FÁILThe 2009 Youth Conference overwhelmingly recommended that Ógra Fianna Fáil be radically reformed. Following extensive consultation with Ógra members, as part of the process of renewal within Fianna Fáil, the National Youth Committee and the Ard Comhairle, with the endorsement of party leader Michael Martin agreed on proposals to radically overhaul the structures of Ógra Fianna Fáil. The new structures will include a smaller and more defined National Youth Commit-tee and a newly established National Council consisting of 3 delegates per Ógra CDC/Third Level Cumainn. The changes will also see the direct election of An tUachtarán Fhianna Fáil for the first time. These are radical reforms for Ógra and represent a real empowering of our members.

YOUR PRESIDENT, YOUR VOICE

In response to the Government’s decision to set the date for the Presidential Election on a Thursday Ógra organised an online petition calling on the govern-ment to set the election date for a Friday or a weekend. Thursday Polling dis-enfranchised people who were not in their constituency due to work or college commitments. We asked people to support to support this campaign by using our email generator tool to write to each Cabinet Minister to express their opinion. In total, 1,815 emails were sent.

THIRD LEVEL RECRUITMENT

Ógra has organised two major recruitment campaigns since our last National Youth Conference – one in September 2010 and the second more recently in September just passed.

In particular, Third Level Ógra Cumainn have been busy recuiting at Freshers’ Fairs across the country. The response has been good but recruitment has been more difficult in contrast to pre-vious years. However, we have been encouraged at the number of students specifically seeking out our recruitment stands in order to join.

Our new members have shown to be interested and we have observed a rea-sonably high retention rate with newly joined members who have attended a first and subsequent local cumann meeting. A strong emphasis has been placed by all our Third Level Cumainn on holding a first meeting within one week of recruitment and organising an active events calendar in order to maintain the interest and participation of newer members.

INFORMATIONGUIDE

SHAPEYOUTHE

FUTURE.

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GOBNAIT O’CONNELL MEMORIAL AWARDÓgra of the Year 2011

The presentation of the Gobnait O’Connell Memorial Award for Ógra of the Year 2011 will take place at the National Youth Conference Banquet. The winner will receive the Gobnait Perpetual trophy and a cheque for €700 for the development of their Ógra unit.

The ‘Ógra of the Year’ is judged under seven headings: Membership. Events & Activities, Election Campaign Activities, Publicity/Media Relations, Policy Development, Future Plans and a final statement entitler ‘Why we are the best Ógra of 2011’. The prize will be

awarded to the unit of Ógra which displays enthusiasm, effort, and initiative in all of its activities.

The award is dedicated to the memory of Gobnait O’Connell, former Membership Development Officer and Youth Officer of Fianna Fáil. Gobnait was tragically killed in a car accident in September 2000. During her three years in Fianna Fáil Headquarters, Gobnait

was a dynamic and enthusiastic force, who worked tirelessly for the Party and in particular gave her wholehearted support and passion to Ógra Fianna Fáil.

BEST FIRST TIME DELEGATE 2011This year will see a large number of first time delegates attend the Conference! To encourage active participation in all workshops and seminars, the Best First-Time Delegate Award will be adjudicated on similar lines to the Best Delegate Award but will reflect the level

of engagement made with the Conference by first-time delegates.

BEST NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE DELEGATION 2011

The Best National Youth Conference Delegation 2011 of the will be presented to the Ogra unit whose combined members over the course of the Conference made a real impact at the motion workshops and seminars, participating fully with all events taking place by

attending in large numbers and by engaging with the topics being discussed.

Darren Treacy pictured receiving the Gobnait O’Connell Award 2009 on behalf of Tipperary North Ógra CDC

SEMINARS

What should Fianna Fáil stand for?


Town Hall style discussion with Party Leader.

REGENCY SUITE 2FRIDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 8.15PM-9.15PM

Micheál Martin TDParty Leader

REGENCY SUITE 2SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 11AM-12.30PM

Cullen AllenOwner, Cully & Sully

Megan GreeneHead of European Economics, Roubini Global Economics

Michael McGrath TDFianna Fáil Spokesperson on Public Expenditure and Financial Sector Reform

Tim DalySenior Director of Operations (EMEA), McAfee Ireland

Panel discussion format led by chair with comments and questioning from the audience.

Chair: Senator Darragh O’BrienSeanad Leader - Fianna Fáil

Panel:

JOB CREATION: DRIVING IRELAND'S

FUTURE



Town Hall style discussion with Party Leader.

REGENCY SUITE 2FRIDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 8.15PM-9.15PM

Micheál Martin TDParty Leader

REGENCY SUITE 2SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 11AM-12.30PM

Cullen AllenOwner, Cully & Sully

Megan GreeneHead of European Economics, Roubini Global Economics

Michael McGrath TDFianna Fáil Spokesperson on Public Expenditure and Financial Sector Reform

Tim DalySenior Director of Operations (EMEA), McAfee Ireland


Chair: Senator Darragh O’BrienSeanad Leader - Fianna Fáil

Panel:

JOB CREATION: DRIVING IRELAND'S

FUTURE

19

REGENCY SUITE 2SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2.30PM-4PM

Clive ByrneDirector, National Association of Principals & Deputy Principals

Brian MooneyIrish Times Columnist & Institute of Guidance Councillors

Ciaran MurphyBank of Ireland Professor of Business Information Systems, UCC

Senator Averil PowerFianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Education & Skills

Brendan Smith TDFianna Fáil Dáil Spokesperson on Education & Skills







Chair: Cllr. Malcolm Byrne

Panel:

IS EDUCATION DELIVERING

OPPORTUNITY?

REGENCY SUITE 2SATURDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2.30PM-4PM












Chair: Cllr. Malcolm Byrne

Panel:

IS EDUCATION DELIVERING

OPPORTUNITY?CENTRAL OFFICER BOARD ELECTIONS

QUINLAN, EamonWaterford Ógra

Fellow Republicans,

A very big welcome to this year’s National Youth Conference. For those of you who don’t know me, I have been active in Ogra for years across all its levels. I have been a chair of the University of Limerick cumann and Waterford Ogra Cumann. I am also currently Third Level Ard Comhairle Rep. This weekend is the most important for Ogra since its foundation. This weekend, we will together change how Ogra operates fundamentally so that for the foreseeable future all those who follow us will have a much more Ógra centred, independent organisation whoes key aim is the actualisation of it’s members beliefs and talents within our party and the wider political sphere.

One of our first objectives from this conference will be setting out just exactly who we are, our aspirations for Irish society and how we wish to achieve these. We will create the answers to the question, what does Ogra stand for? As Uachtarán, I wish to lead this movement in such a way that works with all our members, utilising talent on all levels, on committee or new members, so that we can all be included on Ógra policy, campaigns, events and decision making going forward. Co-ordinating our talent will be a priority for future success.

I want us to accept the challenge of change in all areas. We will promote our causes through our Parliamentary Party and local representatives, of which going forward we will be the standard bearers of the creation of even a larger group of Fianna Fail Public Representatives. This will be our duty. To be the change that the Irish people will need to the large unyielding Labour and Fine Gael coalition. It is only at our best do we do our public service by making sure our friends and neighbours choose us and our ideology over that of the failure of right wing and hard core left wing reactionaries who would exploit our citizens’ anger at circum-stances rather than providing solutions to those circumstances.

We must champion the efforts of community and work to strengthen it by pro-moting local programmes. We must be the positive change we wish to create not solely through state institutions but by activity on the ground to lead by example and illustrate the motto that a small group of committed people are the greatest force of change our world has ever known.

Have a great conference.

UACHTARÁN ÓGRA FHIANNA FÁIL

DELEGATEE

NATIONAL POLICY & CAMPAIGNS DIRECTOR

FOGARTY, GerTipperary North

A chara,I’m 23, from Thurles, Co. Tipp and I’m a Legal Executive. I studied Business, Law and Tax in LIT and am completing a Masters in Law in UL and Tax Consultancy. Before working full-time in family retail business I was Parliamentary Assis-tant to Senator Mark Daly and I have worked in the civil service.

I have volunteered with the Order of Malta for over 12 years and organised many fundraisers. Committee member of the Law and History Societies in UL and a member of Macro.

I was Secretary of ‘Ógra of the Year’ North Tipp Ógra and former Chair of UL and LIT Cumainn. PRO of my Cumann and C.C. Organised the Lisbon Treaty campaign in North Tipp, the ‘Save the Tallyman’ campaign nationally and some local, Gen-eral and Seanad campaigns.My priorities:

• A strong voice on reform and renewal.• Power back to you with member-driven policies.• Including all members from 32 counties.• Action on all motions & policies.• Northern Ireland and European policies.• Accountability and regular communication.• Improving organisation, structures and financing.• Promoting Ógra.

View my action plan on gerfogarty.com

I look forward to discussing my plan, ideas and experience with you. Enjoy your weekend!

REGAN, JohnRoscommon

Hi, my name is John Regan, I am a 25 year old PhD student from Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

I am currently Chair of the Kevin Barry Cumann in UCD and Youth Officer of Dublin South CDC. I previously served as Policy Coordinator on the National Youth Committee from Nov ’09 – March 2010. During that time I produced policy documents relating to Youth Unemployment and Marriage Equality. In March 2010 I was appointed Policy Advisor to Minister Pat Carey, working on issues such as community policy, social disadvantage, rural affairs and language policy. I served as Director of Elections for Senator Averil Power in both the 2011 General and Seanad Elections.

I have extensive experience in policy formation. In 2009 and 2010 I organized the Dublin Policy Day event and conducted the first National Ógra Survey in 2010. I believe that no policy can ever be an Ógra policy unless it has emanated directly from the members and has a campaign and media strategy attached. My manifesto contains many practical and achievable ideas, such as a 5 year plan to renew Ógra, the Brian Lenihan Policy Weekend and initiatives relating to recruit-ment and events.

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FITZGERALD, CiaránMeath East

Hi there! , welcome to the Youth Conference! Let’s have a great weekend!

I’m running for National Events Director.This is a new position in Ógra and will be cru-cial in making us an activist based organisation. It will be my job to organise National Events around the country and help organise the next Youth Conference.

It’s YOUR Ógra, YOUR Events.

I have much previous experience in organising events, from fundraisers and din-ners at home in Ratoath, Co. Meath all the way up to organising debates and guest speakers for over 1,000 people with the Law Society in UCD. I have com-pleted two courses in event management.

I want Ogra to be a much more visible and active organisation. I want to run several events which will achieve this:

• Monthly debates, seminars and think-ins with guest speakers• Fun social events and nights out with bands, DJs and nite club deals• Canvassing Workshops and Officer training • Regional events and trips away, commemorations, clay pigeon shooting,

Ógra at the races, fundraisers and much more...

Real Events for Real Causes.

Have a look at my manifesto and come up to me for a chat!

Others promise, I deliver.

O’MAHONY, RayCork South Central

Hi everyone, my name is Ray O’Mahony and I’m contesting the position of National Events Di-rector. With your support I intend to revitalise Ógra in terms of the events that it undertakes, making them more beneficial and more inclusive for all our members and for Ógra as a whole.

Ógra needs new thinking for new possibilities. I have never served on the national youth com-mittee before and yet as an individual member I took the initiative in establishing two new national Ógra events; the Jack Lynch Cup for sports and the Charles Haughey Trophy for poker. Not only do I aim to sustain current activities, but to build on them, make them better than before and to introduce new and original events for Ógra.

I first joined Ógra in 2006 in the University of Limerick, serving on various roles of the committee there including chairman in 2009. Currently I am vice-chairman in Cork South Central and with your endorsement I would like to serve as Na-tional Events Director.

I hope to meet and engage with as many of you as possible to hear your thoughts and ideas. Enjoy the National Youth Conference and enjoy Cork, the real capital!

NATIONAL EVENTS DIRECTOR

HENRY, Keith Sligo

A native of Bunninadden in Co. Sligo and 2nd year student in NUI Galway, I’ve been involved in Fianna Fáil since I was 14. As the outgoing Connacht Ulster Rep I believe I have served my region with integrity and commitment over the last two years. There are now vibrant Ógra units in nearly every constituency and I’ve pre-pared the groundwork in others. Communication among members and from the National Youth Committee has increased tenfold with quarterly email updates. While I was the youngest member of the outgoing committee, I ensured that my voice was heard. I had an input into the online blog, education, budget sub-mission and organisational reform documents. I highlighted the need to boost recruitment among second level students, as well as build links with local and national media.

Outside of politics I am heavily involved in the GAA as a referee since 2007, play-er, manager and officer on Club, County and Provincial committees. I am also in-volved in Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Community Games and Macra na Feirme.Although only 19 I’ve gained a lot of experience over the years. I worked from 2008-2011 as a parliamentary assistant to former TD Eamon Scanlon and cur-rently hold the positions of Sligo Ógra Secretary, NUI Galway Treasurer, Sligo N. Leitrim Youth Officer and local Cumann Chairman.

If elected I will continue my work on improving communication among members by establishing a functioning database. Having founded Sligo Ógra and recruit-ed members in NUI Galway and IT Sligo I have the necessary skills required to mount a national recruitment campaign.

I offer you experience, reliability and a proven record of hard work and com-mitment over the last five years for your No. 1 Vote. I hope that you enjoy the conference and look forward to meeting as many of you as possible.

SCULLY, EoinLaois

Dear members,

I should be included in the Conference Clár be-cause I have campaigned extensively and se-cured not only the one nomination required, but others as well. During the course of seeking a nomination for the position of National Member-ship and Recruitment Director I have travelled the length and breadth of the country and I be-lieve that those whom have been gracious enough to nominate me deserve to see their nominee take part in the forthcoming elections.

I have met many members on my travels around the country and there are many more to meet. For those whom I have not met me please stop by for a chat, I love to hear differing opinions and from diversity comes strength and if there’s one thing this party doesn’t lack is strength. For those who have nominated me and met me before it will be nice to have the opportunity to talk again and I hope to see you and chat again throughout the conference.

Special thanks to the members of the following Ógra Fianna Fáíl for keeping me going during the nomination process and making my presence here possible; Cork East, Cork South Central, DCU, Laois, Longford, Offaly, UL , Waterford IT and Westmeath.

Is mise le measEoin Scully

NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP & RECRUITMENT DIRECTOR

DELEGATEE

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BRADLEY, FionánTrinity College Dublin

Hi, my name is Fionán Bradley I am seventeen years old I am a member of Ógra since May 2010 and I am from Donegal North East. I am the cur-rent secretary of the Inishowen Ógra Fianna Fáil CC and Donegal North East CDC. I am a first year student in Trinity College Dublin and I am studying single honours history. I am standing for election for the position of National Third Level Organiser and I am asking for your No. 1 vote in the Elections at the NYC for this position. I am involved in many voluntary organ-isations in my town. I am a member of my local Tidy Towns committee and the current chair of the Youth Committee. I am a member of the Buncrana Branch of the Irish Red Cross. I am an active volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul and I take up a church gate collection with the organisation each week. I am a member of the Buncrana Pantomime society and Greasepaint productions. I play golf and indoor bowles. I was elected on to the Student Council in my school three times once as Chair. I was captain of the Mental Health public speaking team for my school. I have always had a keen interest in politics and last February I went on work experience to Seanad Eireann. In prize giving last year I was awarded with the Cllr. Bried Bonner Perpetual shield for my outstanding civic participation.

I also believe that most politicians start out in University. I believe that we as an organisation can once again make an impact and become a strong voice in Irish politics. I think we should start in our universities because after all that is where all the young people and the budding politicians of tomorrow are! I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to represent you on the National Executive of Fianna Fáil and I would relish the opportunity to be your National Third Level Organiser for the next year! Please vote Fionán Bradley No.1!

FINUCANE, BrendanUniversity College Cork

Brendan Finucane is a former Chairperson of the UCC Donogh O’Malley Cumann. During Bren-dan’s tenure as Chair (2010-2011), society day sign up’s quadrupled to over 400 and active membership doubled to over 50.

UCC Fianna Fáil held a number of charity events for local Cork based charities. On top of this we held two on campus campaigns; UCC Fianna Fáil Extend the Night Campaign, and a Suicide Aware campaign which coincided with UCC’s mental health week.

The Cumann was awarded Best Political Society and Best Campaign/ Innovation for our Extend the Night Campaign at the 2011 Societies Awards. The Cumann were also awarded Runner Up as Best Political/ Debating Society, which was awarded to the UCC Philosophical Society. On an individual note, Brendan was awarded a Bene Merenti, in doing so he was one of seven people shortlisted for Society Person of the Year in recognition for his work as Chairperson of the UCC Donogh O’Malley Cumann.

Brendan believes 3rd Level Cumainn have a unique opportunity over the coming years to be audacious in our campaigns and our policy ideas. We are not limited in terms of capacity; we can only be limited by the goals in which we set our-selves. Over the past few years we have seen the rise of other political youth organisations take a more active role on our campuses. It is time for Ógra Fianna Fáil to get out on campus and meet students, debate with students, and most importantly learn from students.

Let us think outside the box, let us think of new ideas in how to run meetings and how to run political campaigns. Let 3rd Level Ógra Fianna Fáil become rel-evant once again.

THIRD LEVEL ORGANISER

MCCANN, James Dun Laoghaire

My name is James McCann, I am 24 and I joined Fianna Fail in 2008 after my service in the De-fence Forces as I wanted to continue to serve my country and the broader community.

Since joining I have been an active member. Currently I am Vice-Chairperson of Glenageary/Rochestown Cumann and Chairperson of Ógra Fianna Fail Dun Laoghaire and have been very ac-tive in both this year’s General Election & Dublin West by-election, previous local elections and the Lisbon referendum.

I am currently involved in a number of not for profit organisations including the Irish National Community & Voluntary Forum, Southside Partnership and I also represent Ógra on the National Youth Council of Ireland. I run a local Neigh-bourhood Watch scheme covering 1300homes, the largest in Ireland, and have secured over €50000 in funding for security grants for older people in the area.

This is a critical time for Fianna Fail in Dublin and strong organisation and individ-ual commitment is needed to get us back on our feet. I want to set the standard for Dublin Organiser and lay the foundations for a stronger, more active Ógra and I look forward to meeting you soon to discuss my ideas.

.

WARD, Paul Anthony Dublin Central

My name is Paul Anthony Ward. I’m 23 & have been a member of Fianna Fáil since my time in Maynooth.

I’ve been active since the 2009 local elections working closely on the ground in my local con-stituency with Cllr Mary Fitzpatrick & became an active member of the Kevin Barry Cumann in UCD in 2010.

In GE11 I devoted huge amounts of time to helping out in Dublin North East (with Averil Power) & my home constituency of Dublin Central (with Cllr Mary Fitzpatrick) in 2011.

More recently, I’ve been working full time in the Dublin West bye-election & have been elected as Secretary of Dublin Central Ógra.

I’ve been doing voluntary work in St Francis Hospice, Raheny & have been an ac-tive member of the Order of Malta Ambulance corps in my area, currently work-ing as Duty Officer, which entails large amounts of organisational work through-out the year.

This is undoubtedly a critical time in the history of Fianna Fáil in Dublin; at the time of this being printed we are doggedly fighting to retain our only Dáil seat in Dublin!

An Ógra that’s active on the ground will undoubtedly be key in the revival in Dublin. My credentials in organising & personally getting out there to knock on doors, I believe, makes me the person for the job.

DUBLIN ORGANISER

DELEGATEE

27

FALLON, AnthonyRoscommon

A chairde, My name is Anthony Fallon and I am running for the position of Connaught-Ulster Regional Organiser. I grew up in the south of County Roscommon, near to the Galway border and I am currently working as a Radiation Therapist in the Mater Private Hospital. In the past 10 years I have been active in the campaigns and work of the party in Roscommon, in particular with for-mer Junior Minister Michael Finneran. I have however become disillusioned by the attitudes of the electorate towards the party in my area and wish to build upon current structures to facilitate more open communications within the or-ganisation. In my professional work, I use my initiative, leadership and forward planning skills to ensure patients pass through the department with ease. I feel that these skills, in combination with my desire to rejuvenate the party, will hopefully single me out for this position.

I urge you to consider me for your vote.

MCGRORY, GemmaDonegal North East

My name is Gemma McGrory and I am running for the position of Connacht-Ulster Organiser in the upcoming Ógra Central Officer Board elec-tions. I am 21 years old and I am from Donegal North East. I joined Ógra in 2007 whilst at col-lege in NUI Maynooth where I studied History and Politics.

I was involved in founding the original Comhairle Ceantair in Inishowen which eventually fell apart. For the past 2 years I have concentrated my efforts into rebuilding it. In July of this year I succeeded not only in doing just that but I also more than tripled our membership there. Since then I have been focused on building a CDC unit in Donegal North East and I have recently succeeded in doing so and I am currently the chair of both cumainn.

If elected I will provide strong and decisive leadership for Connacht-Ulster. As well as this, I’d specifically like to look at the areas of organisation, recruitment, communication and media profile, details of which can be found on my Facebook campaign page or on my manifesto.

I have been in Ógra for 4 years now and during that time I have experienced the highs and the lows and I have direct experience in dealing with the difficulties encountered in establishing a new Ógra Unit. As such, I believe that I have what it takes to represent Connacht-Ulster at a national level and I would appreciate your support and I look forward to meeting you!

CONNACHT-ULSTER ORGANISER

WALSH, EamonnMayo

A Chara,

Since the enactment of BUNREACHT NA hEIRE-ANN on July 1st 1937 which set the path for our modern Republic, certain misrepresentations have been made as to what our Republic stands for. Certain parties claim they are fighting for and stand for the Republic. I believe that Fi-anna Fail are the only true Republican Party as we have always stood for true Conservative Republican values that resonate with our people. We do not believe in claiming a part of the Country without the support of the majority of the people in that part of the island and we will not pursue such an agenda. I believe that the renewal of the party must start by setting out our stall, and stating clearly that Fianna Fail is the party of the People, by the People, for the People. Our constitution begins with the words

‘We, the people of Eire’. Now we must renew in the same way, by listening to and connecting with the people again. As a proud member of Fianna Fail I will pursue the common sense policies that this great party was founded on back in 1926. I will defend our constitution as it is the framework for everything we do. The constitution did not fail us, the people who should have defended it did! We must now move forward and start a new.

Together- A New Beginning

Is mise le measEamonn Walsh

.

GORMAN, DamienOffaly

Damien currently lives in Ballybryan, Rhode, County Offaly. He is currently attending NUI Maynooth, where he graduated with a B.A in Economics & Sociology and a Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge, and studying a H.Dip in Professional Accounting. He has been in Ógra since he was 16 and is current Chairperson of Offaly, where he has been secretary, membership & recruitment officer and PRO. In the Seán Lemass Cumann of NUI Maynooth he held the position of treasurer and secretary for a period. Cur-rently Chair of his local senior cumann, Ballybryan and Youth Officer of Edenderry CC, he is actively involved on the senior side. He is also outgoing Leinster Rep.

His main aims include:• Assisting existing cumainn to retain and recruit members and to contribute

in any area where he is called upon to do so. • Rejuvenating/Establishing cumainn in the Leinster region.• Representing the grassroots on the National Council, with their delegates,

and also on the Central Officer Board.

To get to each cumann at least once during the term in office.

I would really appreciate if you would consider giving me your #1 vote. I look forward to meeting you. ☺

LEINSTER ORGANISER

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MCKEE, PatrickKilkenny

Patrick McKee is currently Chairman of Kilkenny Ógra Fianna Fail and also holds the position of P.R.O of the Kilkenny Comhairle Dail Ceantair (CDC). He is an Honorary Vice-President of the UCC Donagh O’Malley Cumann and has worked as an intern in Leinster House for Senator Mark Daly.

Patrick believes strongly that Ógra Fianna Fáil can lead the change that is needed to revive the Fianna Fail organisation and is committed to ensuring that Leinster Ógra is at the heart of that change. He has consistently highlighted the great talent and experience within Leinster Ógra; he wants this talent and experience to be brought to the forefront of the renewal process over the coming years.

Patrick has been a strong voice for Ógra over the last 12 months insisting that the party reconnect with the values and ideas championed by De Valera, Lemass and Lynch.

With the slogan ‘Strength and Experience to Bring Real Change’, Patrick seeks your No.1 vote on Saturday. A vote for McKee is a vote for commitment, deter-mination, integrity & honesty.

Vote No.1 McKee for Leinster Organiser.

PENDER, DaniCarlow

Dia daoibh go léir,

Is mise Dani Pender. I’d like to take this oppor-tunity to introduce myself as a candidate for the position of Leinster Organiser. I am running because I feel that I am best placed to leverage this role for the benefit of Ógra members and the party as a whole through my extensive political and non-political experience.

I’ve been an active member of Ógra for the last 6 years, co-founder and auditor of UCD Arts Society and I’ve also been an active member of UCD Students’ Union, taking a year out of study to serve as an officer of the union. I’ve worked on sev-eral local, National and European campaigns over the years and I am no stranger to policy development, campaigning and building membership on the ground.

The party has taken a blow in both numbers and confidence. We have 3 years to shape up for the next general election but the only way to achieve is to be or-ganised. Anything new has to be built from the bottom up. Perhaps conveniently, this party is at the bottom. The grassroots are where GE15 will begin and they must be organised.

There is no point in the appearance of change, the party must really change. Diverse candidates, open minds, organised ideas. If you elect me I will help Cu-mainn to organise themselves, communicate more with members and each other and to attract new members from all walks. I have outlined my ideas and most importantly how they can be achieved in my manifesto which is available online. I would be delighted to speak to you if you have any specific questions about my plans or would like to know more.

LEINSTER ORGANISER cont.

CLANCY Jnr, PatrickClare

I am nineteen years old. I am from just outside Ennis in Clare. I joined the Ogra Fianna Fail or-ganisation in 2010 in NUl Galway. Since then I have risen through the ranks and am now the Vice-Chair of Clare Ogra CDC. I have the track record of being very productive and pro-active. I have brought strengths to the organisations that I have been directly involved in. I have a vision for the future of Munster 6gra. I would like to see Munster 6gra as the leading forum for younger members of the party bringing their ideas to the floor and getting feedback. To do this we need a solid structure. We need a structure whereby the members can see how their idea is progressing from CDC to NYC to AC. If I get the position I am committed to building the structure up to the level the members want. If I get this position I can and will devote the time required to filling the post properly and correctly. I wish to thank all the people who helped me get this far. Too many to name personally but you all know who you are.

I wish the other candidates the best of luck.

Go n-eiri an t-ath libh, Go raibh maith agaibh,

Patrick Clancy Jm.

FORDE, MichaelCork East

“Hey, I’m Mike Forde, I’m 20 years old and I’m from Outside Cobh in Co. Cork. I’m currently studying Politics and Public Administration in the University of Limerick and hold the positions of Chair of Cork-East and Campaigns and Poli-cies for UL’s Con Colbert Cumann. Not only in-volved with Ógra I also hold the committee posi-tions of P.R.O & Events for UL boarders and Trips & Events for Forum soc.

If elected I wish to Establish new Cumainn, guiding them through their first few months. Actively approach secondary schools and 3rd level institutes with no Ógra presence. Open up and create new ways for contact. Have Ógra become community involved through fund raising and volunteering. Hold several events within the Munster region ranging from Workshops to mixers. As with new cu-mainn I wish to work with Current ones in establishing a calendar for each one so they remain active. If elected I will only speak truth, be easy to contact and listen to all opinions and ideas”

DELEGATEE

MUNSTER ORGANISER

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NELLIGAN, KevinKerry North

Kevin Nelligan is 22 years old and is from Tralee in Co. Kerry. Kevin works in the Conference & Business Centre in the River Lee Hotel in Cork City. A current member of the National Youth Committee as third level rep, he is now contest-ing the position of Munster Organiser. He joined the party after the 2007 general election in UCC and held the roles of membership and recruit-ment officer and also secretary. Kevin is the cur-rent secretary of Kerry North Ogra having rejuvenated the unit 2 years ago. He has also worked on both Lisbon campaigns, the local and European elections in 2009 and this years General election for candidates in Cork city and Tralee.

It’s this experience he knows will help him in the Munster Organiser role. Kevin wants to merge certain Ogra units with low activity to help make them more active, encourage college’s to set up units in areas where there are none such as UCC helping Cork North Central. Also he would like to continue with the idea of the Munster council that was started 18 months ago and have it meet every 3 months to discuss ideas and plan collaborative events and campaigns. On a national basis, he wants to pursue an Ogra draw being established to help Ogra have some financial independence from HQ.

SKELTON, CathalQueens University Belfast

(Not available at time of going to print.)

MUNSTER ORGANISER cont. NORTHERN ORGANISER

BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN AN IPOD NANO!To enter complete at lease one of the below:

• CHECK-IN to the National Youth Conference on Facebook

• TAG @OgraFiannaFail in a photo on Facebook

• USE the #Ogra11 hash tag on Twitter

You may enter more than one photo so get tagging! Deadline: Friday 11th November.

MOTIONS TO THE NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE 2011

Organisation Motions1. This conference amends the age restriction on Ógra membership from 16 -

26 years to 16 - 30 years. Kerry South Ógra (Related motion from Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD)

2. This conference proposes that any individual member of Fianna Fáil found to have engaged in corrupt practices be automatically expelled from the party.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

3. This conference agrees that members may not contest multiple elections for positions on the Central Officer Board. Donegal North East Ógra

4. This conference supports the establishment of regional subcommittees of the National Council.Donegal North East Ógra

5. This conference calls on the incoming Central Officer Board to set up a cross-border policy subgroup to discuss issues of relevance throughout the 32 counties and how we might promote a co-ordinated approach to these issues.William Drennan Cumann, QUB

6. This conference calls on the Central Officer Board to make an extensive effort to better include every Ógra member throughout the 32 counties in the formation of policies.William Drennan Cumann, QUB

7. This conference mandates the Central Officer Board to organise a ‘summer school’ event training delegates in canvassing, public speaking and policy formation, with a number of keynote speakers to encourage development of active membership.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, TCD

8. This conference calls on the new National Membership and Recruitment Director to undertake a comprehensive audit of Ógra units across the coun-try, to establish the membership and activity of units and take steps to assist units which are struggling.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, TCD

[ ] PASSED [ ] NOT PASSED








ORGANISATIONMOTIONS

35

9. That Ógra calls on the senior party to hold a series of regular regional meet-ings at a level higher than constituency level about stated policy issues, open to members of the general public, so as to try and attract new and enthusiastic members outside of the traditional local organisation.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, TCD

10. This conference calls for the establishment of regional fora in each province and Dublin, whose membership will reflect CDC and public representatives and who shall meet on a bi-monthly basis to discuss matters of interest at a regional level. Cork South West Ógra

11. This conference calls for the re-organisation of the Ard Chomhairle of Fi-anna Fáil, which at present is not fit for purpose.Cork South West Ógra

12. This conference mandates that Ógra Fianna Fail allows for Re-Open Nomi-nations (RON) to be included on all future ballot papers for elections to the Central Officer BoardKevin Barry Cumann, UCD

Education:13. This conference firmly opposes any further reductions to the student grants

scheme and also any further increase in the college registration fee for stu-dents.Clare Ógra

14. This conference calls for a debate on the future of third level funding in this country and calls for the recommendations of the Hunt report on higher education to be implemented.Clare Ógra

15. This conference mandates Ógra to seek a ban on retired teachers returning to work to act as substitute teachers when there are many newly-qualified teachers who need the experience of their first job in order to start their career.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, TCD








ORGANISATIONMOTIONS CONT...

16. Go dtionólfar comhdáil ag Ógra Fianna Fáil trí meán na Gaeilge ag plé polas-aithe faoin eolaíocht agus na maiteamaitice sa chóras oideachais.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, Coláiste na Tríonóide

17. This conference calls on the Minister for Education and Skills to develop a new Sports Grant mechanism to target primary schools, with the aim of encouraging engagement with sport from an early age.Cork South West Ógra

18. This conference calls on the Minister for Education and Skills to introduce compulsory driving tuition for all Transition Year students.Cork South West Ógra

19. This conference calls on the Minister for Education and Skills to commence a policy of compulsory work-placement for all third-level programmes in the areas of science and technology and business and law.Cork South West Ógra

20. This conference calls on the Minister for Education and Skills to introduce and promote the teaching of Chinese at primary and second-level educa-tion. This is a reflection of the growing importance attached to the lan-guage in the business world both now and into the future.Cork South West Ógra

21. This conference calls for the introduction of a mandatory entrepreneurial class, teaching practical business skills for the Junior Cert curriculum. Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD (Related motion from Sligo Ógra)

22. This conference calls for the government to promote an emphasis on speaking Irish in the education system by awarding a higher percentage of the grade for the oral examination.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

Enterprise:23. This Conference calls for a re-appraisal of the Job Bridge internship scheme

and payments associated with it.Clare Ógra









POLICYMOTIONS

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24. This conference calls for improved cash flow for Irish businesses by reduc-ing local authority charges, reviewing labour wage agreements, reducing administrative burden and adjusting the tax system.Sligo Ógra

Agriculture and Food:25. This conference fully supports the key recommendations of the Food Har-

vest 2020 report which will lead to the creation of many new job oppor-tunities. Clare Ógra

26. This conference calls on the government to take advantage on the removal of milk quotas in 2015 by reforming taxation policies to support invest-ments for farming and dairy processing. Sligo Ógra

Health and Children:27. This conference calls for the banning of smoking in cars.

National Youth Committee

28. This conference condemns the failure to date of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs to outline her plans to provide additional resources for social workers to cope with the expected increase in demand on social work services with the introduction of mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse.National Youth Committee (Related motion from Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC)

29. This conference vehemently opposes any cuts to front line health services as any reduction will have a serious impact on patient care.Clare Ógra







POLICYMOTIONS CONT...

30. This conference recognises the invaluable work that carers in this country provide on a daily basis and affirm a commitment to protect their entitle-ments.Clare Ógra

31. This conference mandates Ógra to run a national educational campaign to train people to recognise the danger signs of suicide.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, TCD (Related motion from Kerry South Ógra and Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC)

32. This conference calls upon government to change the designation ‘Mother’ and ‘Father’ on birth certificates to ‘Parent One’ and ‘Parent Two’ in light of international best practice.Kerry South Ógra

33. This conference calls upon government to introduce a national social work information system to facilitate information sharing amongst social work-ers in areas around the country, similar to the existing system operating in Dublin.Kerry South Ógra

34. That this conference calls on the government to legislate for adoption for same sex couples and grants them the same rights as heterosexual couples.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC

Social Protection:35. This conference calls on the Government to examine ways of reforming

child benefit payments (e.g. through taxation or means testing)Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

Finance:36. That this conference calls on the government to raise the PRSI allowance

for self-employed people.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC








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Public Expenditure and Reform:37. This conference supports the reform ongoing in the public sector, which

will improve efficiencies and greater transparency in the sector.Clare Ógra

38. This conference calls on the leadership of Fianna Fáil to support a reformed and a more democratic Seanad as opposed to its abolition.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

39. This conference calls for a ban on all corporate donations to parties, dona-tions should only come from individuals entitled to vote in the general elec-tion, a maximum amount should be decided by an Electoral Commission.Clare Ógra

40. This conference urges the government to lower the age at which a person can seek election for a presidential election to 21.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

41. This conference calls on the government to reduce the voting age at local elections to 16.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

42. This conference calls on the government to cut the number of county and city councils by 75%, replacing them with regional councils in each.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

43. This conference calls for the introduction of directly elected Mayors.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

44. That this conference calls on the government to grant all Irish citizens the right to vote in general elections and presidential elections up to three years after they leave the country.Donogh O’Malley, UCC

45. That this conference calls on the government to amend article 41.2 of Bun-reacht na hÉireann relating to the role of women.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC











46. This conference recommends the appointment of a public sector manage-ment ‘Tsar’ to help improve planning and organisation within the public service.Sligo Ógra

47. This conference calls for a referendum on the future of the PR-STV elector-al system by considering proposals in favour of a mixed system consisting of single-seat constituencies and a top-up national list which will ensure proportional representation.Sligo Ógra

Energy and Natural Resources:48. That this conference calls on the government to investigate the possibility

of nuclear power in Ireland.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC

49. That this conference calls on the government to spend more money on renewable sources of energy.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC

Transport:50. This conference opposes any attempt by the government to sell off the

State airports.National Youth Committee

51. This conference recognises the strategic importance of Shannon Airport to the mid west region and calls for increased measures to incentivise future growth and passenger numbers through the airport.Clare Ógra

52. This conference calls on the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to introduce an integrated public transport smart-card that can be loaded with credit online and can be used on all forms of CIÉ operated transport and on Luas.Kerry South Ógra (Related motion Cork South West Ógra)








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53. This conference calls on the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to prioritise investment in the rail network over the coming years.Cork South West Ógra

Foreign Affairs:54. That Ógra welcomes the positive effects of the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to

the State with respect to improving relations between our two states and the steps made towards reconciliation on our island.Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone, TCD

55. This conference calls on the government to maintain the budget for over-seas aid to developing counties.Kevin Barry Cumann, UCD

Justice and Law Reform:56. This conference calls on the Minister for Justice and Law Reform to fast-

track the establishment of the new governing authority for the legal profes-sion in Ireland as contained in the recent Legal Services Bill.Cork South West Ógra

57. That this conference calls on the government to legislate immediately on the ‘C’ case.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC

58. That this conference calls on the government to ensure that single fathers are granted the same treatment as single mothers.Donogh O’Malley Cumann, UCC


NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE STANDING ORDERS

PROCEDURESThe ruling of the Cathaoirleach of Ógra Fianna Fáil or, in the absence of the Cathaoirleach the Leas Cathaoirleach, on all matters of Youth Conference pro-cedure shall be final.

A panel of acting Cathaoirligh will be established by the Cathaoirleach of Ógra to preside at workshops for the consideration of motions.

MOTIONSNo motion may be moved which does not appear on the Clár. A motion may be moved only by a delegate from the Third Level Cumann or Ógra Comhairle Dáilcheantair which has submitted it or a similar motion recognised on the Clár. If a qualified speaker does not rise to speak the Cathaoirleach of the workshop will move on to the remaining motions. No vote shall be taken on motions which are not moved.

On the proposal of the acting Cathaoirleach or a delegate from the Third Level Cumann or Ógra Comhairle Dáilcheantair which has submitted it, a motion may be referred to the National Council of Ógra Fianna Fáil for consideration and decision. Such a proposal for referral shall be voted on immediately and shall be demmed carried by simple majority vote.

An immediate vote may be taken on a motion without further discussion, follow-ing a simple majority vote when called by a delegate to the conference.

AMENDMENTSAn amendment may be moved only if notice of the proposed amendment has been given in writing to the Cathaoirleach of the workshop and it has been ac-cepted as relevant. An amendment proposing a direct negative to a motion may not be moved.

POINT OF INFORMATIONA delegate may offer a Point of Information to a speaker on a motion. The Del-egate must be acknowledged by the workshop Cathaoirleach before offering the Point of Information.

SPECIAL MOTIONSAn application for the addition of a Special Motion not appearing on the Clár must be signed by a representative or representatives of twenty five (25) percent of registered Third Level Cumainn or Ógra CDCs before the terms of the mo-tion are submitted to the Cathaoirleach. A special motion must be submitted to Cathaoirleach Ógra Fianna Fáil on the Friday night of Conference before 11.00pm. If the special motion is accepted by the Cathaoirleach, the Cathaoirleach will then inform the Conference that the Special Motion will be tabled at the start of the relevant Conference Workshop. The proposers should be present and ready to identify themselves when the motion is put.

SPEAKERSOnly Delegates, National Youth Committee members and registered Ógra mem-bers may speak. The Cathaoirleach of a workshop will announce the time limit for speeches on each motion and Topic at the start of the workshop. Contributions must not exceed the time limit set by the Cathaoirleach.

Speakers may be required to register in advance. In this case only registered speakers will be called to speak.

All speakers must take their place in the designated speaker’s area at least five minutes before the commencement of the workshop.

Delegates must confine their remarks to the specific matter of the motion under consideration.

A speaker must cease speaking at the sounding of the Cathaoirleach’s bell. A speaker must yield to the Cathaoirleach of the workshop at all times and the Cathaoirleach’s decision will be final.

VOTINGThe Cathaoirleach will take a vote on motions in the Clár by way of a show of hands after each motion. In the event of the Cathaoirleach being unable to de-cide the outcome of any vote, a count will be made by appointed tellers.

fianna fáil national youth conference 2011 clár

Documents

pm break

pm job creation

level regency suite

pm hustings regional

pm policy motions workshop

pm official opening

leader of fianna fil

fianna fil stand