2025/26 Candidate List
Preston Ó Caoimh
Aoibhe Toft
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Leas-Uachtarán (Deputy President)
Billy Campbell
Ryan Dolan
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Leasa (Welfare Officer)
Amber Noone
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta (Sustainability Officer)
Niamh McGrath
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer)
Emma O’Shea
Cian Santos Byrne
Valeriia Stepanenko
Louisa Tyrrell
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach (Regional Liaison & Support Officer)
Jack Mackarel
Frank Oandasan
Harrison Rossiter McGuire
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Chomhionannais (Equality Officer)
Eoin Murphy
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Cumarsáide (Communications Officer)
David Morrissey
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Dylan Keane
Rónán Ó'hÍcí
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach an Mhíchumais (Disability Officer)
Danny King
Kayleigh McNamara
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Aoibhínn Doyle
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Oifigeach Oideachais (Education Officer)
Alex Caffrey
Conor Clifford
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC)
Diarmuid Cronin
Orla Quigley
Jason Tamayo
Re-open Nominations (Obligatory Alternative)
Uachtarán Candidates
Preston Ó Caoimh
CBS The Green Tralee, Co. Kerry
Nominated by: Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí
Opening Statement: Dia Dhaoibh a Chairde! My name is Preston Ó Caoimh, I am a 6th year student from Tralee Co. Kerry, and I am delighted to be running to be the next Uachtarán of the ISSU! I am running because I truly believe that students deserve more than just a seat at the table, we deserve to be heard, respected and represented in a truly meaningful way. We have the power to create change, challenge the systems we may feel are built to work against us and stand up for every single student regardless of who they are or where they are from. For me, being a leader is not about being the loudest voice in the room but about allowing for every voice to be heard. It’s about listening, learning and working together. I am not running for this role for me, I am doing it for the over 400,000 second level students in Ireland. This is an opportunity to see what student voice can look like, stronger, more inclusive and more connected. If you put your trust in me, I will work hard every single day to make sure that it is your voice that shapes the future of our education. Go raibh míle míle maith agaibh.
Past Experience: I have been involved in the ISSU now for around four years, and during that time, I've been able to work on a wide range of topics. My journey began in 2021 when I was elected as the Kerry Regional Officer (RO) at the Kerry Regional Council. I held this position until the end of 2023. As RO one of my key focuses was the promotion of Gaeilge. As well as that I was an active member of both the Education and Sustainability Working Groups. In 2024, I was elected as the Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer) for the 2024/2025 term. As part of the Coiste Gnó, I had the privilege of working on a range of important topics. I was a member of the Diversity and Inclusion, and the AFC and Statutes Working Groups within OBESSU (Organising Bureau of European School Student Unions) and represented ISSU at OBESSU events across the continent. These positions allowed me to collaborate with student leaders across Europe and create long lasting connections. I also am a member of the Post-Primary Education Forum, where I engage in discussions about the topic of second level education in Ireland. As well as that, I sit on the Ukraine Education Stakeholders group. I also led the Vote @ 16 and Civic Education campaign alongside our Leas-Uachtarán. Another significant achievement was expanding the relationship between ISSU and SSUNI, fostering collaboration that I hope will last well beyond my time in ISSU. I am also redeveloping the ISSU's Guide to the Irish Education System, a simple and easily accessible document outlining the Irish Education System. These are just some of the many projects and initiatives I’ve had the privilege of working on, and I look forward to seeing how the work I’ve contributed to will continue to grow in the future.
What I’d do if elected: If I were to be elected as Uachtarán, there is much that I aim to achieve. Firstly, one of the most important topics facing ISSU and students as a whole recently is the topic of the Senior Cycle reform. Not too long ago ISSU fought for and gained a seat on the NCCA council. With this nominated seat I will actively engage with the ongoing reform of the Senior Cycle curriculum ensuring that it aligns with the diverse needs of students. With this, I will ensure that students are central to the creation of their education.I want to ensure that ISSU remains as a voice for students, by students. As Uachtarán I will prioritise regular consultations and clear communications with our grassroots and make sure that the voice of students on the ground makes its way into decisions at every level. I want to do this through active and engaging social media campaigns, gathering real opinions through Regional Councils as well as other ISSU events and much more. I will actively engage with the Department of Education, the Minister for Education as well as many other external organisations to continue ISSU’s longstanding reputation as a clear and accessible representative for students, working so that students will always have a seat at the table and our voices are always heard. As the ISSU continues to grow it is imperative that our structures adapt. I will work in conjunction with the Coiste Gnó, Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC) and Regional Officer Body (ROB) to review and strengthen our internal bodies, ensuring our long term sustainability. These are not my only aims however due to space I will leave you with some other areas of priority for me; SEN and Special Schools, Student Mental Health, Funding and a lot more!
Aoibhe Toft
Cross and Passion College Kilcullen, Co. Kildare
Nominated by: CPC Kilcullen
Opening Statement: Dia duit! I'm Aoibhe and I'm in 6th year in Cross and Passion College, county Kildare. I'm 18 years old and have been involved in student activism for the last four and a half years. My journey began on my student council where I was a representative for the first time in second year. Since then, I’ve worked with a multitude of youth organisations and gotten involved in projects and campaigns that have been incredibly rewarding. Outside of that I’m a huge Hozier and Ethel Cain fan and my favourite TV shows are Community, New Girl and Arrested Development. My favourite book has to be The Song of Achilles - I got it last year in a blind book swap and it has not left my mind since. As part of my school’s debate club I got to be one of the Irish delegates at a Model UN in Namur, Belgium in February of this year, where I represented Colombia. I love museums and baking birthday cakes for my family. When I’m not studying I love to cook with my friends and watch movies with my brother. For the 23/24 term I was one of the regional officers for the Kildare Wicklow region, and really enjoyed liaising with students and doing research on the student councils in my region :)
Past Experience: As I mentioned, I previously held the role of Regional Officer for the Kildare Wicklow for the 2023/2024 term. I worked with the current Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach Jason Tamayo and really enjoyed the experience working with him and all the other ROs and CG officers. In addition to that, I represented Kildare Comhairle na nÓg on the National Executive 2022-2024 panel. We wrote a proposal to the Department of Education on the new revised SPHE curriculums for both junior and senior cycle after months of research and data collection from students on their experience with SPHE and Relationships and Sexuality Education. Our aim was for the Department of Education to use our proposal to inform future developments on RSE and senior cycle SPHE. In January 2023 I spoke on RTE’s Upfront about the new SPHE curriculum. I chaired the closing session of Dáil na nÓg 2024 in Dáil Éireann, guiding the delegation through the voting process and giving the final speech on the work of the 2022-2024 National Executive. With Kildare Comhairle, I was part of work against gender based violence and rape culture, which has stayed in motion as it is being developed as a standalone project. I’m so excited to see where this goes because it is so impactful, and I’m thrilled to stay involved. For the last two years I have been co-chairperson of my school’s student council and ISSU school rep. Other organisations I’ve been involved with include The Shona Project, spunout, and NYCI, and in June last year I spoke at the Mary Robinson Climate Conference on how feminism and the climate justice movement are intertwined.
What I’d do if elected: It’s impossible to fix everything during one term, but I have chosen to focus on things that will directly benefit students and officers on the CG and ROB. Some aspirations I have for my term as Úchtarán include: Supporting the Vote @ 16 campaign by calling for more comprehensive civic education; continuation of the presidential working group; maintaining contact with students “on the ground” through webinars and information sessions; reaffirm the ISSU’s support for the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign; and continue to emphasise the importance of Gaeilge as a bilingual union. I believe it’s very important for the Úachtarán to be accessible to students. I will hold informational webinars for schools, allowing students to ask questions about the work of the ISSU and learn about the importance of student involvement. As well as this, I would love to give Regional Officers and other Coiste Gnó officers the opportunity to collaborate more often with the Úachtarán and work together to accomplish bigger projects. I think this will give ROs access to more support within ISSU and strengthen their relationship with the CG. I am determined to make strong connections with member schools, engage with the ROB and lead the union to the best of my abilities. As Úachtarán, I’ll be deeply committed to uplifting, defending, and representing the voices of all Irish
Leas-Uachtarán Candidates
Billy Campbell
Sutton Park School, Co. Dublin
Nominated by: Sutton Park School
Opening Statement: Hello! I’m Billy. I am a 6th year 18-year-old student from Dublin who has both a passion and experience in youth work and representation. I attend Sutton Park School in Sutton where I sit as the chairperson of the Student Council. However, my experience comes into a different question. Outside of youth work, I’m currently hard at work preparing for my orals and doing projects. This has admittedly taken most of my focus for the last while, but I think 6th year is the perfect year to run for the Coiste due to the terms officially starting in the summer. For a bit more about me, I’m a lifeguard, a former long-term scout, and I have a black and white cat named Sushi! I ran for education officer last annual assembly and have been involved in ISSU for a while now. I can’t wait to run again for the CG. Within school, I study French, history, geography and computer science for my options. I think the history exam is way too time constraining, hopefully anyone else that takes this subject can agree! Or maybe I just write slowly. Issues in exams is one of the original reasons I took up youth work in the first place. It is an issue that I want to see addressed and resolved, and I think a loud, coordinated student voice (ISSU!) is a perfect way to solve these issues. I’m looking forward to meeting some of you on the day itself or hearing from you during the campaign period!
Past Experience: My experience in youth work/representation is pretty diverse. At a school level: I sit as my school’s Student Council Chairperson, where I represent the students at our school in raising issues and viewpoints to the school management, staff and relevant oversight boards. Regionally and within ISSU, I am a previous North Dublin Regional Officer for ISSU. In this role, I was elected to represent all students in Fingál and North Dublin City on a regional level. This means I was responsible for receiving student input by working with school ISSU representatives. This provided me with not only an appreciation and experience working directly with grassroots, but also an essential understanding of the ISSU organisation, work and structure. And also, general experience representing students in this organisation. This is invaluable if I want to run for the next level, the Coiste Gnó. Within ISSU, I was a member of the Pre-Budget Submission Working Group, a working group which worked on the creation of the budget to be submitted on behalf of the organisation. Within the group, along with the main body I worked specifically with the 2024 Pre-Budget Submission Second-level Education Investment Team, working on education-based investment initiatives. Also regionally, I am a member of my local Fingál Comhairle na nÓg (youth council). Nationally and on a European level, I am a member of the NYCI (National Youth Council of Ireland, an umbrella organisation for organisations such as ISSU and Comhairle na nÓg) Young Voices - EU Youth Dialogue Core Group 2025. In this role, I help run important events around the country in gathering youth voice for EU issues. These roles have prepared me in both youth work and representiation on all levels. I am confident that these will each help me invaluably if elected to the Coiste.
What I’d do if elected: I have several goals if elected to the Coiste. The first is internal strengthening. I want to ensure that the organisation is structurally capable of allowing officers to fulfill their external duties such as working on important junior and leaving certificate examination changes. Specifically, I will work with the Uachtaran to ensure that his annual work and the annual work of the Coiste is carried and completed. I will assist all other officers as the secretary to the coiste to foster a collaborating and effective national body. I will work on campaigns for ISSU on a national level to ensure the policies and mandates that students vote on at the annual assembly are carried out and lobbied over the year. As the general overseer and planner for events and trainings, I will be constantly engaged in both attending and planning/hosting events for ISSU. I want to assist the uachtaran and education officer in delivering a response to recent leaving certificate changes. As mentioned earlier, I will also work on opening a new path of communication. ISSU previously used surveys to gather mass opinions on education-related issues, but there is a limit on how many we can release, and it does not reach all students. We need to change this in order to receive students’ opinions more frequently and accurately. I will work with the new communications officer to achieve this. As Leas Uachtaran, I will ensure that both the ROB and the CG are completing their work in the most effective and up to date internal environment, while also assisting them in any way I can. I will continue to explore my goals during my campaign, as I cannot fit all details here.
Ryan Dolan
Athlone Community College, Co. Westmeath
Nominated by: Athlone CC
Opening Statement: Hi everyone! My name is Ryan Dolan. I’m a 18year-old student at Athlone Community College, I’m in Sixth Year and I live in beautiful rural Co. Roscommon. I like to think I’m at a fascinating stage in life, where I’m exploring my interests and discovering my passions as well as meeting new people and making new friends. I have a massive interest in politics and the workings of the world around me, and I want to make a difference. One thing I love is Sports, especially Gaelic Football, playing sports has taught me that whatever I put time and effort into, I excel at and keep getting better. I also love Kayaking and Water sports, and these reveal my adventurous side. I love pier jumping during the Summer as well as foreign holidays with my family. I have visited Spain, Florida and New York on numerous occasions but I have a soft spot in my heart for camping in Westport. Something else I’ve also become interested in is student-led activism and climate action. These are critical issues that affect our planet, and it's inspiring to see students willing to take action and make a difference. As a young person, I have the potential to make a significant impact on the world, and I believe that I’m on the right path to achieve this, one day I hope to be a TD! (Maybe even an MEP!). By continuing to explore my interests and staying engaged in the issues that matter to me, I can develop a sense of purpose and create a positive impact on the world as I know it. I strive to make the world a better place! That’s why I’m running for Coiste Gnó!!
Past Experience: Over the past number of years, I have gained experience in so many different areas whether this be in school, on a GAA pitch, in a meeting room or on a zoom meeting these experiences have proved invaluable to me and I continue to learn from each one. As a participant at Debate Your Decision Maker, I gained experience in advocating for sustainability and environmental issues on a national scale. As the Chairperson of Roscommon Comhairle Na nOg, I learned importance of leading a team, in this role I have also had the chance to become Director of the Listen Link Mental Health Service. As President of the Green Schools Committee in my school, I spearheaded numerous initiatives to promote sustainable practices and reduce waste in our school and I hope that in the next few weeks we will be awarded our 5th Green Flag. As the Student Council Secretary for the past year and student council member for the past 3 years, I have worked tirelessly to represent the interests of over 1,200 students in our school. I have advocated for sustainable practices and policies within the school management, and have worked to ensure that students have a voice in decisions that affect them such as our school canteen, uniform policy and environmental policy. I was also a Rotary Youth Leadership winner and a past participant of BTYSTE and SciFest and winner of the Arcadia Creative Climates Competition. These experiences have allowed me to develop my leadership and problem-solving skills, as well as my passion for science and sustainability. I am also a member of my schools Concern Debate team. Last year I received the Athlone Community College ‘Climate, Environmental and Sustainability’ award. This award showcased my work that I done while I was a Junior Cycle Student in Athlone CC.
What I’d do if elected: As a Coiste Gnó Officer, my main goal would be to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness among second-level students about the importance of environmental conservation. I believe that it is essential to empower young people to take an active role in creating a more sustainable future. To achieve this goal, I would implement several initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainable practice in schools. Firstly, I would work to increase the availability of recycling facilities in schools and encourage students to properly dispose of waste. I would also encourage schools to reduce their plastic waste by working with school stakeholders to create new resources to help them achieve this.
Secondly, I would organize the annual DYDM event to raise awareness about the impact of climate change and the importance of environmental conservation and the SDG’s. This events could include guest speakers, opportunities to speak to politicians, interactive workshops, and educational displays. I would also work to involve students in practical projects such as tree planting, community clean-ups, and other initiatives to promote environmental conservation and sustainable education.
I would also work with other officers on issues such as mental health resources and support services for students who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues. I believe that mental health should be a priority for all schools, and I would work to ensure that students have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Overall, my aim as a Coiste Officer would be to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about environmental conservation among second-level students. By implementing practical initiatives, organizing educational events, and advocating for sustainable policies and practices. I believe that we can inspire young people to become active participants in creating a more sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
Oifigeach Leasa (Welfare Officer) Candidates
Amber Noone
St Louis Community School, Co. Mayo
Nominated by: St. Louis CS
Opening Statement: Hello my name is Amber noone I am an active sporty girl that enjoys swimming playing soccer and spending time with my friends and family I would best describe myself as a bubbly and out going person that loves getting to know new people and being involved in anything to help people out and learn new things
Past Experience: Past experiences that would bring me to this role is that I have been involved in a lot of the cycle against suicide and I have been working closely with the students members and my school to help protect students from bullying and I also like to help plan from the future of young people
What I’d do if elected: I would try to help second-level school to prevent bullying as best they can and help promote mental health and wellbeing and help provide support and safe spaces for students all across the country
Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheachta (Sustainability Officer) Candidates
Niamh McGrath
Loreto Secondary School Fermoy, Co. Cork
Nominated by: Loreto Fermoy
Opening Statement: Hi my name is Niamh McGrath and I am sixteen years old. I have been involved in youth activism and youth work for almost a year and a half. I am in my last year of cork county Comhairle na nog and I am also a member/ work with the following groups, the YMCA, ECO-unesco, Spunout and NYCI. I have a big interest in the sustainable development goals and I have been apart of projects and attended events surrounding the goals, notably the future generations project with the ymca on goal 14 and Debate you decision markers 2025. My motivation for getting involved in group that amplify the voices of young people has always been my aversion to the phrase “ children should be seen and not heard”. This was phrase represents a time and a mindset that failed and is still failing to make true progress on big issues like climate change as a whole demographic of people with opinions and voices are not being heard. I would classify myself as somewhat of a climate activist and I think I began that journey at the age of around 8. This was when Greta Thunberg was getting more and more notice and even spoke at the United Nations. This became a goal of mine, to be able to inspire massive amounts of young people to stand up for what they believe in no matter their age. As a sailor I feel compelled to what stronger climate action and demand it, as I feel the effects of the climate change as sailing becomes more and more challenging as we becomes more susceptible to harsher weather. I am the current senior vice chairperson of my student council. I am also a debater and the Secretary General of my schools mun club.
Past Experience: I have completed workshops on the following: facilitation, life writing, ecology and biodiversity, digital storytelling on the environment, intersectional environment and advocacy and activism. I have completed consultations for the following : the sexual health centre, health Ireland, body, the arts department in cork county hall and electoral committee (NYCI). As a member of Comhairle we have been working on the topic of mental health. The aim of our work is to improve the lives of young people through the topic of mental health. We have been working a creating a publication with the YMCA for mental health services and a website to promote and provide services. As a part of a sub committee, which I am the team leader, we are gathering resources for young people. With the YMCA I participated in a youth reporting trip to Belfast YMCA that was centred around the SDGs. Youth reporting in digital creativity that aims to capture the views of young people and spread them. Actions like making a podcast are considered youth reporting. With the NYCI I am involved in EU youth dialogue and I have been selected as one of the NYCI’s delegates for EYE. EYE or the European youth event is a youth event held in Strasbourg every 2 years which brings together over 6000 young people from all over Europe. The event fuses together creativity and activism. I have participated in model European Council an event held in Dublin castle that sees young people representing member states, i alongside two classmates represented Germany, debate an eu directive. I also participate in Model United Nations conference which involve young people becoming representatives for member states and partaking in debates and negotiations. I have won five awards for this and was made my schools Secretary General.
What I’d do if elected: If elected to become the next sustainability officer, I would firstly like to run debate your decision markers. I would like to work on the sustainable development goals through the creation of as many of the following resources.
I would like to work on the goal 16 through a resources that explains the international institutions and the international courts and justice system. I would like to work on goal 7 and 11 with a solar panel installation for schools campaign. I would like to work on goals 12 and 13 with resources on how to reduce and recycle school materials. My plan for goal 15 would include a campaign to plant wild gardens in schools and install compost bins. I would like to work on goal 10 through an empathy coarse to encourage students to become more empathetic towards students from all backgrounds. To further work on goal 10 and work on goals 3,5,6 I would like to provide period products to schools and proper disposal means ( bins in stalls etc). I would like to tackle goal 3 through mental health services by creating a publication for mental health services. I would like to further reduce gender inequality by promoting women in sport. I would like to create something like a podcast to promote and uplift women’s voices in sport. I would finally like to create a resource which teachers students the three area of sustainability, environment, social and governance. This resource would hopefully help them to get involved in local projects surrounding sustainability. I would like this resource to teach the SDGs in a simple and effective way to limit the feeling of helplessness and climate anxiety. I would also like to run a virtual event geared towards helping students lead more sustainable lives through small goals. I would lastly like to work with other officers to create resources and events.
Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer) Candidates
Emma O’Shea
Colaiste Na Riohchta, Co. Kerry
Nominated by: Colaiste Na Riohchta
Opening Statement: My name is Emma O'Shea, I am 17yrs old and in 5th yr at Colaiste Na Riochta Listowel, I've been a member of my school's student council for the past 4yrs. I am now the chairperson of my students council. I am an active,bright and intelligent person. I play the concertina, I'm also an active member of Kerry Comhairle Na Nog and I'm part of Spunout. I am very passionate about listening to other people thoughts and opinions and working with others. I enjoy connecting with others who might have similar issues/problems they face in everyday lives like me.
Past Experience: I am Students council rep for Kerry ETB students forum. I was Kerry representative for Kerry Comhairle Na nÓg sitting in the Seanad chambers (Nov 2022-December 2022). I Attended ISSU skills academy (2023/2024). I am apart of the Spunout Action Panel (2025/2026). I was a part of Kerry Comhairle Na nógs freedom of expression podcast and spoke of my views along with interviewing participants this involved working with other groups across Europe. This podcast was launched (Dec 10th 2023). I spoke on the child summit youth panel about freedom of expression and voice of a child in front of governmental representatives (21st November 2023). I was Involved in a short film created by Kerry Comhairle Na nÓg called “The Bag” in relation to mental health (October 2022). I was MC for Kerry Comhairle Na nÓg youth conference 24/25 academic year. I was Selected to attend Dáil Na Nóg event March 27th 2024. I am the chairperson of my student council (September 24 - present).
What I’d do if elected: If I was elected to the coiste Gnó I would like to achieve Interacting with other countries to compare and contrast the work with other student unions and see how they are run and how they work together to achieve their goals while gathering and sharing feedback with one another along with new ideas I can bring back to possibly improve how Ireland students councils are run. I would work on contacting and communicating with Irelands students councils through a possible survey to receive feedback on what they think is working within their students council and gather opinions asking different questions such as if they think their students council is formed through favoritism or elected fairly etc from this information I will study the results and see what is the most common issue for all and focus on trying to resolve it within the student councils. I would also work alongside the ISSU education officer and research information gathered by past international coiste members who were elected to carry on and improve work that was taken place in the previous years.
Cian Santos Byrne
Coláiste Treasa, Co. Cork
Nominated by: Coláiste Treasa
Opening Statement: My name is Cian Santos Byrne, I’m a 5th year student in Coláiste Treasa Co. Cork. I am a hard working and extremely dedicated student with a keen interest in politics, global affairs and governance amongst many other things. I am very much a goal orientated person, and I strive to do my best on all that I can. Once I leave secondary school I hope to go on to study law. This is something I avidly work towards and is reflected in the things I enjoy doing such as debating or discussing the state of global affairs and politics. Getting the opportunity to debate issues that matter to me is something I value very highly and have thankfully been able to on numerous occasions. School is an important part of my life and I take huge pride in my work something which my grades reflect. I have been an active member of the Student Council in my school now for 3 years and have thoroughly enjoyed working with my fellow students on improving our school and quality of life. Describing myself I would say that I’m articulate and a strong leader. I enjoy supporting team members and acting as leader to which people can look to for advice and support. Others would describe me as fair, approachable, compassionate and loyal. Having a good relationship with the people around me is very important to me and I do everything I can to ensure that I get a long with others.
Past Experience: At 17 years old I would say that I’ve been quite lucky with the experience I’ve been able to get. As part of my TY programme in school I got the chance to try many different things, however what would be most suited to the roll I’m applying for would be the work experience I was able to do. I was lucky to have the chance to spend time in a large law firm in Cork City where I got the chance to experience the work of a solicitor and on numerous occasions attend court sittings in both the Criminal and Civil courts of the city. Having this opportunity not only served as a way for me to explore my interests in the field of law but also served as a great example of how important effective communication and teamwork is in an office space. I believe it is this kind of experience that would help me greatly in any work on the Coiste Gnó. While in TY I got the chance to participate in a debating team of which I was captain. As part of this we debated several other schools on complex and topical issues effecting the world. Not only did this improve my debating skills but it also gave me the opportunity to practice researching and compiling information, which I would then use as my basis for argument in the debates. While in TY I took part in a Model United Nations, this event took place over several days and gave me the chance to see how an organisation like the UN functions. In addition to my general interest in the areas I’ve outlined above I also hold a part time job in a local tillage farm.
What I’d do if elected: To begin I believe it’s important to acknowledge the great work this union has achieved, its work and efforts to improve this country’s student’s lives and education is admirable.
If elected my focus will be to continue this great work and expand it further. The role I’m campaigning for is International Officer, my attention would be focused on the international relations this union has with other organisations around the globe. I believe in having a very strong working relationship with the other students unions around the world, especially those based in Europe. We live in a period of increasing uncertainty in the world as a result changing dynamics need to be accounted for. It is my belief that as a union and most importantly a body made up of students, that we maintain and strengthen our interworking relationship with fellow and like minded organisations. We as a union, in our essence represent the future educated people of this world, as such it is vital that we stand up for students everywhere. Political shifts around the world have put increasing pressure on minority groups, students are not immune to this pressure and so a strong and coordinated response around the world is needed by all. As International Officer another key area of focus for me would be the efficiency of this union on the International stage and how we promote ourselves, there is a lot to be achieved from working closer with our colleagues from other countries. I would seek to incorporate the best of every union into the ISSU. Finally, I have been fortunate enough to have already at a young age have had the chance to travel to many countries around the world, this awareness and experience would serve me well in this office.
Valeriia Stepanenko
Ramsgrane Community School, Co. Wexford
Nominated by: Ramsgrane CS
Opening Statement: I am Valeriia Stepanenko, a Ukrainian refugee currently studying in an Irish school. When my mum and I came here to Ireland in 2022 due to the war in my Motherland, I immediately got involved in the local and school community, using my translation skills to help as many Ukrainians and Irish people as possible to bridge the understanding gap. In my school, I am a Student Council Representative where I got involved in making award-winning movies on Gender Inequality and Climate Change in the past two years. I have participated in many team projects like YSI, BOI, student enterprises and went on a Czech-Irish exchange and TY Pilgrimage to Medjugorje. I also became a youth ambassador for Mary's Meals where I worked with people from many countries during meetings, workshops, projects and so on. I am interested in politics and I spend my free time reading news, which led me to writing articles for my school newspaper. I also love public speaking and debating and I gave speeches in English in my Ukrainian and Irish schools and participated in oratory and debating contests, winning awards and being a team captain of my school’s debating team. I also love presenting powerpoints and as a member of the Learning Hub, I gave presentations on study tips and recently on a subject choice. Overall, I have settled in my community pretty well and I am very lucky to say that I found many friends. In the future, I want to work in an organisation and in fields that involve international relations and business. I am applying for Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer) because I believe it will be very beneficial to me as it would provide me with an invaluable insight into how organisations work and cooperate.
Past Experience: > “Hook Peninsula Friends of Ukraine” volunteer. I've been a main translator at various occasions and attended meetings for Ukrainians and Irish as well as responsible for helping solve Ukrainian refugees' issues living in a local village. I also organise annual events in the village and meetings for volunteers and Hookless residents. I've acquired many skills from this as I had to liaise for the organisation and ensure communication between relevant bodies, and have cooperated with various people and organisations at various occasions. Thanks to this I have developed these skills that I could bring to the role of Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer) for liasing with different organisations, arranging meetings and so on. > International Club. Founded it as there are growing numbers of students from different countries at my school and it is open to anyone. Students of different nationalities integrate into school and find friends and we have input from Irish students as well. We have organised events such as cultural dancing, story exchanges and sports. I've developed management and organisational skills and I could bring my experience to the role. > Work experience at the Leinster House & Wexford Town Office as an Administrative Assistant of George Lawlor. I learned many skills like email typing and formatting, doing researches on certain topics and public speaking as I had a chance to witness Dail sittings. Thanks to it I am not scared to put forward ideas for discussion and these are some things that I could bring to the role. > Language skills (Ukrainian, Russian and English). I've used them for translating both at school and local community. I also participated in a Ukrainian podcast as part of the "Immigration programme" and I could bring these to the role and provide a unique perspective and personal experiences as a Ukrainian refugee in Ireland.
What I’d do if elected: If elected to the Coiste Gnó, I would like to achieve the following for second-level students:
> Create something similar to the Schools of Sanctuary or make it more popular. I would like to spread awareness about it, the issues of immigrants/refugees and get more schools and people involved in it. When we, Ukrainians, were fleeing the war, many volunteers and people helped us in many things, particularly guiding us through Irish education and healthcare system. However, many immigrants/refugees and some Ukrainians did not get the same treatment because of their remote location, lack of English language knowledge and so on. To achieve my idea, I'd organise a group of people willing to work on this and then delegate the work. For example, we could make a booklet with important information and websites for then that they might not be aware of. > Greater cooperation with Northern Ireland. As a Ukrainian and a 5th year student who is studying History, I understand the importance of unity and collaboration particularly at this current unstable time. I would do this by organising more events (similar to the Rotary Youth Leadership Competition) - whether workshops, contests, exchanges and so on - with them where students would interact with each other, break stereotypes (such as religious clichés) in their minds and become closer as they would reach a better understanding of each other. > Successfully do my job. I would do this because this is one of the most important things of the role. I would do this by using a study table and my skills from studying at two schools at the same time and managing TY. I would consult with previous Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officers) and officers from the Coiste Gnó, constantly referring to my responsibilities of a Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta (International Officer).
Louisa Tyrrell
Temple Carrig School, Co. Wicklow
Nominated by: Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí
Opening Statement: Dia dhaoibh gach duine! Louisa Tyrrell is ainm dom, táim ocht mbliana déag d’aois agus táim as an “gairdín na hÉireann”, Contae Cill Mhantáin. Some random facts about me, I am a cuiteog (left-handed), I’m a scout, I can say the alphabet backwards, I love to read, I love plants and I’m very passionate about youth activism and Gaeilge.
I first got involved through the ISSU as a Regional Officer when I was in second year and since then I’ve never looked back! Youth activism has opened up a whole new world to me, I have made friends across Ireland, Europe and beyond and had some amazing experiences. Due to this I am a huge advocate for the importance of youth activism in young peoples lives. I have lobbied increased supports for activism and sought to create opportunities for young people in my own area.
I am running for the role of Oifigeach Idirnáisiúnta as I hope to learn more about activism at an international level, what we can do to improve youth activism supports in Ireland, and as supporting international students is something very close to my heart due to some of the strong friendships I’ve made through activism throughout the years! The answers to these questions are far from exhaustive, so please check out @Louisa4international for more and to follow along with my campaign! :D
Past Experience: I have been involved in youth activism for five years now, below are some of the amazing opportunities I’ve had that are relevant to this role! I was elected as Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach for the 2023/24 term of the Coiste Gnó. This has given me an in depth understanding of the working of ISSU at a regional and National levels, of our policies on political topics and brilliant interpersonal skills. The OI role was once described to me as “Uachtarán Abroad” so I believe this high level experience within the Union would be invaluable. I represented the ISSU at a Council Of Europe training course entitled “Youth Activists for Democracy and Human Rights”, and I travelled to Berlin as part of the Irish delegation to the Young European Security Conference with the Schwarzkopf Foundation. These experiences have helped me foster an international network and given me insights into working in a representative capacity at an international level. I am a National Delegate of European Youth Parliament Ireland, National Youth Assembly of Ireland and I have taken part in numerous Model United Nations events, each of these have massively developed my public speaking skills. I have been involved with the National Youth Council of Ireland in a multitude of ways, I was a member of the Young People’s Committee 2024, I have been selected as a Local Champion for 2025 and I am a member of the EU Youth Dialogue Core Group. I have worked with many other youth organisations such as Comhairle na nÓg, Spunout, Jigsaw, and served as a youth representative on the Expert Group for Student Participation with the Department of Education. Overall I hold the experience, knowledge, skills, and intercultural understanding needed for the role of OI and would bring passion, dedication and boundless enthusiasm!
What I’d do if elected: I have three main aims for my term, namely, a focus on supporting international students, increased connectivity with OBESSU member organisations and SSUNI, and liaising with organisations working to promote international students’ rights and inclusion. International students, and especially migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking students face unique challenges in our education system. I would work to ensure our union is as inclusive as possible and work closely with an Oifigeach Cumarsáide to create a page on the website for international students. I would to form strong working relationships with OBESSU’s member organisations and focus on ISSU relationship with SSUNI. This is invaluable for both resource and idea sharing as well as international solidarity with other students. I am very well equipped to carry this out due to my international experience; I have already connected with the students’ unions of North Macedonia, Germany, and Serbia. Additionally, cross-boarder relations are hugely important for many issues we work on such as Gaeilge rights and youth mental health. Lastly, I would reach out to organisations including the Irish Council for International Students, the Irish Refugee Council, the Immigrant Council of Ireland, Doras, and Nasc. I would also form a working group for international students and seek to focus on specific areas that affect students, in particular direct provision. There are two resources I would create, one on the Right to Protest, and one on Intercultural Education. The right to protest has been threatened in many European countries recently. I would create a resource so that students are aware of their rights and also how to protest peacefully. Intercultural education is hugely important for fostering inclusion, understanding and respect when it comes to cultural differences. I would create a practical resource for students to learn about intercultural learning and carry out workshops in their own schools. Lastly, a project I would work on is one between the European Youth Card (EYC) and ISSU. The EYC is a great resource for students, and I would love to make this more accessible to students in Ireland. In conclusion, I have strong, clear goals for what I wish to achieve for students in Ireland
Oifigeach Tacaíochta agus Ceangail Réigiúnach (Regional Liaison & Support Officer) Candidates
Jack Mackarel
Monaghan Collegiate School, Co. Monaghan
Nominated by: Monaghan Collegiate School
Opening Statement: I am a fifth-year student at Monaghan Collegiate School, coming from a rural background in the countryside of County Monaghan. My favourite subjects are History, Business, and Geography. Throughout my school years, I have had the privilege of sitting on the student council, being an active debate team member, organizing petitions to encourage positive change, coordinating charity events, and winning awards for my history writing. My passions lie in advocating for student liberties, promoting political education, religious tolerance, and environmentalism. My commitment to religious tolerance stems from my own experiences as a member of a minority religion, which has often been used as a source of discrimination against me. Similarly, my advocacy for environmentalism is driven by the criticism my father, a farmer, faces, which motivates me to bring greater attention to these issues. I hope to attend university in Dublin to study History and Economics, with the long-term ambition of holding office at the national level, particularly in fiscal policy. I am deeply committed to advocating for the values that matter to me, and I hope to use my experiences to effect positive change at a national level.
Past Experience: Over the years, I have gained invaluable experience through involvement with various organizations, individuals, and events. I have been actively involved with the ISSU for two years, serving as a regional officer for Cavan/Monaghan and as a member of the Equality Working Group. In addition to this, I have been a member of my school’s student council, where I have advocated for a student identity card and worked on petitions to promote gender equality in the school uniform policy. Public speaking is an area I am comfortable with, having given speeches at soapbox competitions and addressed the entire school body. I also have strong organizational skills. For example, as part of the planning committee for my third-year action project, I coordinated efforts across multiple groups to ensure smooth execution. Outside of school, I have gained valuable experience in parliamentary assistance, having completed work experience with a local minister and senator. In terms of research and communication, I have demonstrated proficiency in these areas. I won first place in a local county council history writing competition, showcasing my ability to conduct in-depth research and produce high-quality written work. Overall, I believe I would bring a strong set of skills to the Coiste, including petitioning, public speaking, organizing people, drafting press releases, and conducting research.
What I’d do if elected: If elected, my main goal is to provide second-level students with a more comprehensive political education. I want students to feel confident and informed about their rights, responsibilities and stance when they begin voting as adults. Additionally, I am committed to making the Vote@16 campaign more transparent and accessible to all students, not just those involved with ISSU. Political engagement should be inclusive, and every student should have the opportunity to participate. Regarding ISSU, I aim to strengthen the role of the Regional Officer Body (ROB). From personal experience, I know that the work of the ROB often goes unnoticed, and participation can be lackluster. I want to increase the visibility and impact of the ROB’s efforts, ensuring that students and schools recognize its value. I also want to foster unity within the ROB. A divided connection to the grassroots weakens the union, and I believe that by improving communication and collaboration, we can make the ISSU stronger and more effective. Finally, I aim to create more resources and literature for students. These will help students better understand the benefits of involvement and encourage greater participation in student governance, ultimately leading to a stronger, more engaged student body.
Frank Oandasan
Tullamore College, Co. Offaly
Nominated by: Regional Officer Body
Opening Statement: Hello!My name is Frank Maurice Oandasan, but Frank is fine. I'm currently 16 years old going on 17 this June! Im filipino but I was born and raised in Ireland. I'm the youngest of two children, with my brother being the oldest and living in Canada! I have a strong passion for culinary and sharing love and happiness through food. I also enjoy student voice and trying to help the best I can. I love getting to know new people, and making as many good friends as possible is something I strive for. Working with other people and creating a bond as a group is something that I hope to do whenever I do group projects and making sure everyone can do their fair share is something I find very important. My favourite colours are also green,brown, and white/cream.
Past Experience: Well, currently I have been on my student council for 2 years now, and currently the Chairperson. As part of the student council and as Chairperson I have gotten to work on many projects such as currently we are working on helping with student well being and exam stress and pressure for 6th years, with recently we worked on a small baking competition for students to enter and their fun creations would be given as treats for 6th year's who had just finished their mock exams! Giving them something to snack on and enjoy after mocks. With this we have also worked with some local charities, running different events such as a talent show and food drive appeals. Outside of school I am currently a member of the Offaly Comhairle Na nÓg where we are working with the HSE to help with mental health in Offaly. As for what I believe for what I bring to the table, I believe I bring a fresh set of eyes to the coiste and I believe that even though that I am somewhat new to the ISSU that with what I have experienced so far that I can bring and help the ROB and Coiste to a better future and better link between our grass root schools.
What I’d do if elected: If I were to be elected as part of the Coiste Gnó as the OTCR, that I'd be able firstly work on a bond between the Issu, Rob and the grassroot schools as I believe from what I have experienced so far as being a student council member and as an Rob for the Issu, that the issu is not well known for ordinary students that aren't part of their student council, who don't get to voice their opinion or know where to voice their opinion. A way I'd like to implement a solution to this issue is by creating a presentation that I would be able to do and give to our member schools being accompanied with the rob if the respective county along with the student council of the school, giving a brief chance to explain what the issu does and we can do, and while their getting the students opinions on different topics creating walking debates and allowing students to voice the issues that they are facing that the issu is able to work on. Other issues I'd like to work on if I were to be elected as OTCR is to work on is creating more time for the Rob to talk with each other and create multiple opportunities throughout their term to work on their regional project and help each other with their projects, being able to bounce ideas off each other allowing them to give their opinion or perspective that can be used to help each other's regional project.
Harrison Rossiter McGuire
St Peter's College, Co. Wexford
Nominated by: Regional Officer Body
Opening Statement: Dia daoibh, is mise Harrison agus is tusa an Oifigeach Réigiúnach le haigh Lach Garman. My name is Harrison, I am one of the two Oifigeach Réigiúnach ADIÉ / ISSU Regional Officers for Wexford. I have been passionate about student activism for as long as I can remember. When I first found out about the Coiste Gnó, I instantly resonated with the position of Oifigeach Ceangail agus Tacaíochta Réigiúnach. I have always had a passion for collaboration and unity, and I believe that OCTR is an amazing place to realise this, because when we are divided, they will overpower us, but together we are strong. Despite this, I believe it is vital for someone to take a stand and lead the charge. That is what regional officers can do, and that is why I choose to run for the position of OCTR. While the ISSU makes a difference every day, the more people we can get informed and involved, the more impact we can have. I have been told before that the issues faced by people in my community are too local or too small scale, and this sickens me; that is why I am passionate about grassroots engagement and providing sufficient training and support to officers across the country so they may empower, defend and uplift students and their regions.
Past Experience: Over my lifetime, I have collated a multitude of skills from different sources. I have been public speaking for over thirteen years, most recently passing my silver level LAMDA exam, for which I delivered three monologues and answered a series of unknown questions. This exam required me to speak clearly. This skill would be important as OCTR to enable me to address the Regional Officer Body and deliver ROAR reports to the Coiste Gnó. I have been involved in student activism for a long time. This started with the student council in primary school. This has now turned to Coiste na Teachaíochta, Student Council, Green-Schools, Global Schools and Library Leadership. I have been chairman on many of these committees, both on a full-time and part-time basis. The ability to chair meetings is an essential part of being OCTR, making sure that everyone is heard and receives the support they need. As chairman of Coiste na Teachaíochta, I ran the “SPC Olympics”. This two-week student vs. teacher event was a logistical nightmare, requiring me to organise equipment and facilities for 11 events and manage over 40 players. This was a huge opportunity for personal growth. I developed my organisation, communication and logistical skills. I am currently Oifigeach Réigiúnach for Wexford. This has given me invaluable insight into the workings of not only the ROB but also the ISSU as a whole. I would use this knowledge to aid regional officers the length and breadth of the country. I have completed the Develop ME teamwork training, which has given me skills and techniques that I could bring to the ROB to reduce friction and improve team efficiency.
What I’d do if elected: Empowerment. I pledge to empower all Regional Officers so that they can reach and exceed their goals for their regional projects. As a regional officer, I know how much empowerment and encouragement from the OTCR means. If elected, I pledge to continue this encouragement to the ROs for the rest of the 2025 term and the beginning of the 2026 RO term. Membership. I pledge to strive to increase ISSU membership throughout Ireland, increasing grassroots engagement so that every student knows that they have someone in their corner. Because we are nothing without students, and who knows, the next school that joins the union might just have a future Uachtaráin or OTCR. Collaboration. I pledge to be a driving force behind collaboration, both between neighbouring regions and the ROB and Coiste Gnó. I am lucky that the town my school is in has a student leadership forum every year. This is an amazing event of knowledge sharing and networking. This has taught me the value of collaboration and how, when we work together, we can achieve so much more. Support. I pledge to support not only the regional officer body but also the Coiste Gnó. If elected, I would be willing to volunteer my time to aid my fellow officers with tasks that don’t require the specific expertise of that officership. I would, however, be careful with this so as not to overcommit myself, and my priority would be supporting the regional officer body.
Oifigeach Chomhionannais (Equality Officer) Candidates
Eoin Murphy
St. Jospeh’s Foxford, Co. Mayo
Nominated by: Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí
Opening Statement: Hi! My name is Eoin Murphy, I’m 17 years old and I am from the small village of Foxford in County Mayo. I’m currently your Oifigeach Chomhionnais, having been co-opted into the role this past January, and I’m running to continue this important work because I believe in equality, equity, inclusion, and representing those whose voices often go unheard. For the past two years, I’ve been an active youth activist, working both locally and internationally to highlight the real issues young people face today. From chairing my student council to travelling to places like Strasbourg, Budapest, and Brussels, I’ve had the honour of speaking up for young people on matters like education, mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate justice. I bring energy, empathy, and experience to everything I do. I also have a dog that is a Dachshund otherwise known as a Sausage dog named Denny! My favourite singers are Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan, and Hozier and right now I’ve got “Perfect Celebrity” by Lady Gaga on repeat. I’m proud of the work we’ve done so far, but there’s more to be done. If I’m re-elected, I’ll continue to fight for a space where everyone feels seen, heard, safe, and celebrated.
Past Experience: Over the past few years, I have been deeply involved in youth advocacy across Ireland and Europe, bringing a strong, passionate voice to the table wherever I go. Currently, I serve as the Oifigeach Chomhionannais with the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union, where I lead anti-discrimination efforts and implement equality mandates on behalf of second-level students nationwide some examples of my work is organising the Woman’s Conference in March of 2025 setting up my equality team and releasing the racism in schools report that will be out next month! I did this all in the space from January to now. Before this, I was a Regional Officer for Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim, uplifting student voices across the region. I’m also proudly part of the Belong To Youth Advisory Panel, working to ensure safety, visibility, and empowerment for LGBTQIA+ youth. I was a Foróige National Council Delegate and Reference Panel member, where I helped shape national youth policy in one of Ireland’s largest youth organisations. I represented young people in numerous national forums, including the National Youth Assembly of Ireland, Youth Work Ireland’s Action Group, the National Youth Council’s Young Voices initiative, and Tusla’s Youth Advisory Committee. I was also the Irish Representative for the TikTok Global Youth Council as well as a co-researcher on an EU mental health project with UCD, focusing on school belonging and wellbeing. I’ve also represented students internationally, I’ve attended seminars run by the Council of Europe on how we can make young people involved and interested in politics as well as attending events run by the European Youth Forum called LevelUp!
What I’d do if elected: If I am elected again to the Coiste Gnó, I will aim to improve the secondary school education system to ensure it is fair and welcoming to all students, regardless of their background or identity. My main goal is to make Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) more inclusive, particularly for LGBTQIA+ students who are often forgotten in the RSE curriculum. I will collaborate with the Oifigeach Leasa to help create a modern curriculum that genuinely reflects the diverse experiences of students and fosters understanding and empathy. Coming from a small rural village, I understand on how often rural voices are overlooked, so I’ll work to improve communication and outreach to make sure those communities are properly represented. I’m also really passionate about making period products free and accessible in all schools and supporting students who are struggling with the rising cost of living by fighting for affordable transport, school meals, and more. Supporting religious inclusion is very important to me. I want to create spaces where everyone can pray and provide special food options at events to respect all religions. I also plan to start a group that reaches out to communities that are often overlooked, like the Traveller community. This group will focus on topics like addressing the challenges students in their community face and how can ISSU engage with them more. I will also promote the use of Irish Sign Language (ISL) at ISSU events to make sure Deaf students feel fully included and supported.
Oifigeach Cumarsáide (Communications Officer) Candidates
David Morrissey
CBS The Green Tralee, Co. Kerry
Nominated by: Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí
Opening Statement: Dia Dhaoibh Gach Duine! My name is David Morrissey, I'm a 6th year student at CBS The Green in Tralee Co Kerry, and I am re-running to be your Oifigeach Cumarsáide (Communications Officer) for the 2025/26 term! I have a strong interest in History, even though it's actually my least favourite subject for the Leaving Cert! I’ve collected antiques for as long I can remember! My personal heroes are, President John F. Kennedy, and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. My goal in life is to one day write a book! I am re-running as I have already thoroughly enjoyed this role that I took up on the 27th of January of this year. I want to continue the work I started in communicating the incredible work undertaken by all stakeholders in ISSU. I want to ensure that every student remains informed and connected to the work that everyone in ISSU does. I've learnt so much in the short time I've taken up in the role, from forming social media campaigns, crafting newsletters, releasing statements, promoting events, and asking for student feedback, it’s been such a rewarding experience, and I’d be delighted to keep representing, uplifting, and defending student voice! Go raibh míle maith agaibh!
Past Experience: In my time short time as Oifigeach Cumarsáide, I’ve gained incredible experience in communicating the work of ISSU to the 400,000 students across the country. I’ve been responsible for overseeing social media campaigns, creating newsletters and promoting ISSU events. I've learnt how to effectively keep students informed, connected, and engaged with the incredible work happening within the ISSU. During my term, I worked alongside the Oifigeach na Gaeilge to make ISSU’s content as bilingual as possible. Promoting Gaeilge at every opportunity in line with the Scéim Teanga has been incredibly important to me. In terms of accessibility, I learnt a lot from worked closely with the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais to make all forms of media from ISSU as accessible as possible. I also worked on promotional planning for events such as, Debate Your Decision Makers, The Women’s Conference and An Chomhdháil Bhliaintúil. This year, ahead of An Chomhdháil Bhliaintúil, we launched our Call Campaign inviting Student Councils across the country to the event, which I can gladly say was certainly a success! Outisde of ISSU, I joined my Student Council in 3rd year and took on an active role in reshaping its structure and operations to ensure the Council became more democratic and representative. Last year, I advocated getting a position for both the Chairperson and myself on the Board of Management, as we were the only stakeholders not to take part in BOM meetings. I have become well-versed in using Canva over the past 3 years and I design all our Student Council’s posters, presentations, documents, reports, and more. One of my first initiatives on the Council was creating our Student Council logo on Canva, which I and all members continue to use on all Student Council documents and presentations. Since joining the Council, I’ve organised our AGMs and design our annual report, which is sent to all stakeholders in the school. I head our communications by managing our Student Council email and overseeing the Student Council noticeboard.
What I’d do if elected: I want to continue to work towards improving communication between students and ISSU, ensuring that all second-level students in Ireland are informed about the initiatives, events, and campaigns happening within ISSU. I also want to regularly showcase the work done by Regional Officers on our social media platforms. I believe this will encourage more students to get involved in the work being done at a regional level. I want to work on increasing student involvement in the projects and initiatives we undertake at ISSU, ensuring their voices will be heard and considered in the policies and actions that impact them. I would do this through polls, surveys, and other feedback methods, providing them with a platform to share their views, concerns, and ideas. I will work closely with the Oifigeach na Gaeilge to ensure that ISSU's content remains bilingual and that we continue to promote the Irish language at every opportunity, in line with the Scéim Teanga. In terms of accessibility, I want to build on the progress we made this year. I have focused on ensuring that all forms of media from ISSU are as accessible as possible by using colour schemes and fonts that meet accessibility standards, as well as adding alternative (ALT) texts to social media posts and ensuring accessibility in all ISSU presentations. This is something I am committed to continuing and improving throughout my term.
Oifigeach na Gaeilge Candidates
Dylan Keane
St Louis Community School, Co. Mayo
Nominated by: St Louis CS
Opening Statement: Dia dhaoibh, Is mise Dylan Ó Catháin agus is as Maígh Eo mé. Today I am putting myself forward to run for the Coiste Gno. I am passionate about student voice, authentic representation and making sure each student feels seen, valued and heard. I believe that real change comes when we are brave enough to speak up and act on what we want. That is why I believe that this committee is so important. I have been lucky to gain leadership and experience from being involved in my schools student council and by being the Vice Chairperson of Mayo Comhairle Na Noig. Because of that I know what it takes to bring young peoples voices together and push for change. Mar a deir an seanfhocail “Ní neart go cur le cheile”. I put my name forward to work with you and for you. I would be honoured to represent young peoples voices in a role like this.
Past Experience: I have always had a passion for student voice and representation. In first year I joined the schools student council and also joined Comhairle Na Noig. After a year on both of these committees I began to grow in confidence and I ran for the vice president of Comhairle Na NOig, which I was successful in getting. I also began to become a lot more involved in Student Council, leading projects, such as fundraisers and reviewing school policies. These roles gave me valuable leadership and networking experience. I have also attended a gaeilscoil for primary education and attend the Gaeltacht every summer.
Due to all of this I believe I could bring valuable experience, skills and fresh new ideas to the table!
What I’d do if elected: If elected, I would like to make a difference towards the gaeilge. I would like to change peoples attitude towards it and I want it to be something people enjoy, and not loathe. Because it is our native language and culture that we should be proud of. Firstly I would work to creat informal student led spaces for gaeilge. Like online groups, apps or channels. Also things like social media challenges, pages dedicated to it etc. I would also work on the in person aspect, setting up resources and groups for students to use in person. Secondly I would collaborate with ISSU regional officers and ISSU school representatives to work on Irish in schools. Focusing on events like seachtain na gaeilge. I would also gather student feedback on what we could do. “Tír gan teanga, tír gan anam” Irish is a dying language and there’s no point saying otherwise, while there has been a peak in interest among youths lately due to groups like kneecap it is still in danger. I want to work to turn this around and make a difference. With the help of me and support from others, I believe we could bring the language to life in a whole new way.
Rónán Ó’hÍcí
Gaelcholáiste na Mara, Co. Wexford
Nominated by: Regional Officer Body
Opening Statement: My name is Rónán Ó'hÍcí, a sixth-year student in Gaelcholáiste na Mara and a proud Gaeilgeoir. I'm running for the role of Oifigeach na Gaeilge as I have a vision for a future where Irish isn't seen as just a school subject, but rather a living, thriving part of student life across Ireland. As someone who has spent their entire education in the Gaeloideachas system, I've seen both its beauty and its challenges. My love for Irish was ignited by the very system that now, in many ways, is failing to protect it. My school has operated in temporary buildings since it opened in 2007 and I have done my whole education from primary up in temporary buildings. I have experienced the system – having no books through the language I am meant to be studying in, the sevre teacher shortage and the empty promises. It's clear that while the Gaeloideachas system works, that it's being held back by underinvestment and inequality. I am currently a Regional Officer for Cill Dara-Cill Mhantáin on ISSU's Regional Officer Body, and throughout my term I have worked closely with the current Oifigeach na Gaeilge. As a result, I have developed a strong understanding of the role and how ISSU operates. This insight, combined with my lived experience as a student in Irish-medium education, drives me to represent Gaeilgeoirí and all students with honesty, clarity, and vision. I want to be part of building an education system where Irish is respected, resourced, and real-not just romanticised. As Oifigeach na Gaeilge, I'll work to Represent, Uplift & Defend Student Voice.
Is mise Rónán Ó’hÍcí agus is Gael mé. Táim sa séú bliain i nGaelcholáiste na Mara i gContae Chill Mhantain. Táim ag seasamh don ról mar Oifigeach na Gaeilge de bharr go bhfuil fís agam de thodhchaí nach mbreathnaítear ar an nGaeilge mar ábhar scoile amháin, ach ina cuid bheo, ráithiúl de shaol na ndaltaí in Éirinn. Mar dhuine a bhfuil a oideachas iomlán déanta agam trí mheán na Gaeilge, tá an dá thaobh den gcóras Gaeloideachais feicthe agam – a áilleacht agus a dhúshláin. Is é an córas oideachais a mhúscail grá i mo chroí don nGaeilge ach is é an córas céanna atá ag scoilteadh mo chroí, ar go leor bealaí. Chaith mé m’aistear ar fad tríd an gcóras oideachais i bhfoirgnimh shealadacha. Osclaíodh Gaelcholáiste na Mara i 2007 agus táimid fós lonnaithe i bhfoirgneamh sealadach, cé go ndúradh liom go mbeinn sa scoil nua roimh an tríú bliain. Tá taithí agam leis an gcóras – gan aon leabhair trí mhéan na Gaeilge, an gantannas múinteoirí agus na geallúintí folmha. Caithfear acmhainní leor mhaith a chur ar fáil dúinn mar is léir go n-oibríonn choincheap an Ghaeloideachais, ach go bhfuil an córas á scriosadh mar thoradh ar easpa tacaíochta. I láthair na huaire táim mar Oifigeach Réigiúnach do Chill Dara–Cill Mhantáin ar an gComhairle Oifigigh Réigiúnacha agus tá roinnt ama caite agam ag obair go cóngarach leis an Oifigeach na Gaeilge reatha. Dá bharr sin, tá tuiscint láidir agam ar an ról agus ar an gcaoi go n-oibríonn ADIÉ. Spreagann an léargas seo, in éineacht le mo thaithí phearsanta mar dhalta sa nGaeloideachas, mé chun ionadaíocht a dhéanamh ar Ghaeilgeoirí is chuile dhuine le hionracas, le soiléireacht agus le fís. Ba mhaith liom a bheith mar chuid de chóras oideachais ina bhfuil meas, acmhainní agus fíor-thacaíocht don nGaeilge, ní mar rómánsaíocht amháin. Mar Oifigeach na Gaeilge, beidh mé ag obair chun guth na ndaltaí a Léiriú, a Spreagadh & a Chosaint.
Past Experience: Over the past number of years, I've built experience that brings together leadership, advocacy, and a deep commitment to Gaeilge and student voice. At school, I've served as Chairperson of both the Student Council and the Irish Committee, as well as Head Boy, helping to build community, organise events, and champion student voice around me.
My involvement with ISSU began a number of years ago, and I am proud to currently serve as a Regional Officer on ISSU's Regional Officer Body. In this role, I've worked to represent, uplift and defend student voice within my region and importantly worked closely alongside the current Oifigeach na Gaeilge. This has given me first-hand experience of the expectations, responsibilities and potential of the role. I understand the inner workings of ISSU and know how to navigate its structures to bring forward meaningful change. I've also been an active voice for Gaeilge on a national stage. I've participated in many the Gaeilge4All campaigns and protests and I was invited to speak as a young Gaeilgeoir to speak on the Committee on the Irish Language, Gaeltacht and the Irish-speaking community, in the Oireachtas. I'm an All-Ireland Champion debater, winning Díospóireacht Uí Chadhain in 2023, a prestigious debating competition for Gaelcholáistí and Gaeltacht schools . Beyond titles, what matters to me is building connections and making sure no student feels left out of the Irish language conversation. I bring experience, passion, and a track record of turning ideas into action, always doing so in the spirit of ISSU's fundamental values of Representing, Uplifting & Defending Student Voice.
Le roinnt blianta anuas, táim tar éis taithí a thógáil a nascann le ceannaireacht, abhcóideacht agus tiomantas láidir don nGaeilge agus do ghuth na ndaltaí. Ar scoil, bhíos mar Chathaoirleach ar an gComhairle na nDaltaí agus ar an gCoiste Gaelach, chomh maith le bheith mar Phríomhchinnire na scoile , ag cabhrú le pobail a chruthú, imeachtaí a eagrú agus guth na ndaltaí a chur chun cinn. Thosaigh mo rannpháirtíocht in ADIÉ roinnt blianta ó shin, agus tá mé bródúil as a bheith mar Oifigeach Réigiúnach faoi láthair. Sa ról seo, táim ag obair chun guth na ndaltaí a léiriú, a spreagadh agus a chosaint i mo réigiún. Ina theannta sin, bím ag obair go dlúth leis an Oifigeach na Gaeilge reatha. Tá taithí dhíreach faighte agam ar na hionchais, ar na freagrachtaí agus ar na féidearthachtaí a bhaineann leis an ról. Tuigim struchtúr agus córas inmheánach ADIÉ agus tá a fhios agam conas dul i bhfeidhm air chun fíor-athrú a bhaint amach. Táim gníomhach mar ghuth ar son na Gaeilge ar stáitse náisiúnta freisin. Ghlac mé páirt i go leor feachtais agus agóidí Gaeilge4All, agus tugadh cuireadh dom labhairt mar Ghaeilgeoir óg os comhair Choiste na Gaeilge, na Gaeltachta agus an phobal labhartha na Gaeilge san Oireachtas. Bhain mé amach Díospóireacht Uí Chadhain i 2023 – comórtas díospóireachta do Ghaelcholáistí agus do scoileanna Gaeltachta. Ach níos tábhachtaí ná aon teideal, is é an rud ba mhó atá uaim ná ceangail a chruthú agus a chinntiú nach mbíonn aon dalta fágtha amach as comhrá na Gaeilge.Tugaim liom taithí, paisean, agus taifead oibre de smaointe a chur i ngíomh, ag tógáil luachanna bunúsacha ADIÉ san áireamh i gcónaí, chun guth na ndaltaí a léiriú, a spreagadh & a chosaint.
What I’d do if elected: If elected, I want to make Gaeilge visible, accessible, and empowering for all second-level students, no matter their background, fluency, or school type. 1) Firstly, I want to create an ISSU Coiste Gaelach Handbook, much like the current student council handbook in partnership with organisations like Conradh na Gaeilge and Gael Linn. This would act as a practical guide for schools to establish their own Irish Committees, encouraging students to take ownership of Gaeilge promotion in fun, creative, and meaningful ways outside the classroom. 2) Secondly, I will carry out a report on the standard of education in Gaelcholáistí and Gaeltacht schools, gathering students' voices and real experiences. If this report shows inequality, I will work with officers such as the Oifigeach Chomhionannais (Equality Officer) to address the gaps. Students in Irish-medium education deserve the same level of resources, respect and recognition as any others. 3) Finally, I will campaign for fair and future-focused changes to the curriculum. This includes advocating for a Communicative Irish Course, mandatory for all, based on the Common European Framework of Reference, and an optional Literature and Pros course for native speakers and advanced learners, much like Applied Maths. I want to help shape an education system where the Irish language is not treated as a token gesture, but as a living, supported and accessible part of every student's school life and society as a whole. As Oifigeach na Gaeilge, I’ll work to Represent, Uplift & Defend Student Voice by ensuring our native language is a source of pride, opportunity and belonging for all.
Má thoghtar mé, ba mhaith liom an Ghaeilge a dhéanamh infheicthe, inrochtana agus cumhachtach do chuile dhalta dara leibhéal, is cuma cén cúlra, líofacht nó cineál scoile atá acu. 1) Ar dtús báire, ba mhaith liom Lámhleabhar Choiste Gaelach ADIÉ a chruthú, cosúil leis an lámhleabhar atá ann don gComhairle na nDaltaí faoi láthair, i gcomhpháirt le heagraíochtaí cosúil le Conradh na Gaeilge agus Gael Linn. Beidh sé seo mar threoir phraiticiúil do scoileanna chun a gcoistí Gaelacha fhéinig a bhunú, ag spreagadh daltaí chun an Ghaeilge a chur chun cinn ar bhealaí spraíúil, cruthaitheach agus brí taobh amuigh den seomra ranga. 2) Ansin, déanfaidh mé tuarascáil ar chaighdeán an oideachais i nGaelcholáistí agus i scoileanna Gaeltachta, ag bailiú tuairimí agus taithí na ndaltaí. Má léiríonn an tuarascáil seo éagothroime, oibreoidh mé leis an Oifigeach Chomhionannais agus oifigigh eile chun na bearnaí sin a laghdú. Tá cothrom na Féinne tuillte ag na daltaí sna scoileanna seo maidir le hacmhainní, meas agus aitheantas. 3) Ar deireadh, rachaidh mé i mbun feachtasaíochta ar son athruithe ar an gcuraclam atá dírithe ar an todhchaí. San áireamh ná abhcóidíochta a dhéanamh ar son ábhar Ghaeilge atá bunaithe ar chumarsáid, atá éigeantacht do chuile dhuine bunaithe ar an gComhchreat Tagartha na hEorpa um Theangacha, agus cúrsa roghnach litríochta agus Prós do chainteoirí dúchais agus daltaí ardchumasacha – cosúil leis an gcur chuige de Mhata Fheidhmeach. Táim ag iarraidh cabhrú le córas oideachais a mhúnlú ina mbeidh an Ghaeilge ina cuid bheo, le tacaíocht cheart, agus inrochtana do chuile dhalta – ní mar bheart siombalach, ach mar chuid shuntasach dár saol agus dár sochaí. Mar Oifigeach na Gaeilge, beidh mé ag obair chun guth an ndaltaí a Léiriú, a Spreagadh agus a Chosaint, ag cinnte go mbeidh ár dteanga dhúchais ina foinse de bhróid, deiseanna agus muintearas do chuile dhuine.
Oifigeach an Mhíchumais (Disability Officer) Candidates
Danny King
Pobalscoil na Trionoide, Co. Kerry
Nominated by: Pobalscoil na Trionoide
Opening Statement: My name is Danny, I’m 16 and I’m a TY student in Pobalscoil na Trionoide, Youghal. I have an avid interest in politics and I’m involved in various different youth councils and groups. I love to watch soccer, read, hike and do beach cleans. I have a keen in climate justice, and I regularly attend climate related events and workshops.
Past Experience: I have been involved in a host of youth groups, councils and projects, such as Comhairle na nÓg, NYCI, National Youth Assembly and different events through YMCA. I am also heavily involved in the Youghal Clean Coasts and Blue and Green Network Groups, where I help coordinate climate justice events and participate regularly in community climate efforts. I currently sit on my schools student council, on which I hold the secretary role. As I am running for disability officer, I have firsthand experience with disability as my brother has a rare genetic condition that requires him to use a wheelchair. This has given me considerable knowledge and awareness around disability and the issues many people with additional needs face in Ireland and beyond.
What I’d do if elected: If elected to the Coiste Gnó, I would hope to raise more awareness for student councils in schools nationwide. I believe that in many schools, students feel under represented by their respective councils, as they may not have and previous knowledge of their workings or positions in the school. This could be remedied through enhanced advertising of councils throughout schools nationwide, using a host of different methods. This would foster a greater connection between the student body and their representative council, allowing for better knowledge around school based issues in Ireland.
Kayleigh McNamara
Athlone Community College, Co. Westmeath
Nominated by: Athlone CC
Opening Statement: I'm currently a sixth year student attending Athlone Community College in county Westmeath. After I finish my leaving cert in June I am hoping to pursue further education; specifically, a PLC in forensic science. In addition to a passion for science I have a very strong passion for advocacy. Being a disabled student myself, I have had lots of lived experience of the challenges faced in second level education. However, finding a way to make change and take control of my life and education again helped me fuel my passion to continue to fight for disability rights. I worked on the Coiste Gnó in the past as the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais and really enjoyed my time giving other students like myself a representative and a voice to be heard, from my time on the Coiste Gnó I have learned very valuable skills that are required to work in a team setting and in keeping a healthy work balance despite overseeing three roles for a period due to unforeseen circumstances. I sincerely wish to continue my work to ensure that all students have the support from the ISSU they need to work to the best of their ability and feel represented.
Past Experience: In the past I have worked on the Coiste Gnó primarily as the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais which was the role in which I actually campaigned for, however, due to a set of unforeseen circumstances I found myself in the position of the acting Oifigeach Cumarsáide which I also greatly enjoyed as it went quite hand in hand with the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais role. I have also acted as an executive officer of the presidential support team alongside the Uachtarán Jack McGinn and Leas-Uachtarán Máirín Harding. I am also a member of the national executive steering committee of Comhairle na nÓg where I advise students on the topic of school stress as they use their voice to try and ensure better educational conditions going forward. I also have an extensive career in women's advocacy, particularly with my BT Young Scientist project “Giving Girls a Voice” in which I highlighted the disparity that exists for women within the health sector. For my project I was awarded the first ever Ombudsman for Children's Office award for its importance in highlighting children's rights. During my time as the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais I have also attended numerous talks and panels involving the role of the ISSU within second level education and my role as the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais within the ISSU. One talk which I attended and spoke at that I found quite profound was the Women’s Conference in which I combined my love for women’s advocacy with my love for my job in the ISSU.
What I’d do if elected: If I were to be reelected to the Coiste Gnó I would quite like to raise the standard of accessibility so that we can be more open to more people particularly when it comes to advocating for funding for sensory rooms in schools, a tool which has been long overdue standardization. I would also love to create and hopefully cement an event where we can bring together students and the many organizations that the ISSU work with to show them the clubs, societies and supports at their disposal, making information regarding supports more accessible. Something I'd also like to investigate is removing the requirement of a school needing to have an ASD classroom in order to be considered for the loose furniture grant so that we can better assist the many students who would benefit from such a resource whilst being in a mainstream class, giving students the assistance they need without alienation. Overall, these are some of the many important parts of the Oifigeach an Mhíchumais and I hope to keep my plans centered towards the needs of students to ensure that I'm uplifting their voice and giving them what they need in all the work I'd love to continue doing.
Rúnaí (Secretary) Candidates
Aoibhínn Doyle
Ramsgrange Community School, Co. Wexford
Nominated by: Regional Officer Body
Opening Statement: Hello everyone! My name is Aoibhínn Doyle, and I am a 5th year student from County Wexford. I have been a school rep for the ISSU for the past year or so and I have been acting as a Regional Officer for Wexford since November. I first got involved with the ISSU in 1st year when I attended one of the online student council trainings during covid which opened my eyes to the amazing work that this union does. have a keen interest in politics and student activism and feel passionately about making everyone feel seen and heard in this space no matter who you are or what background you come from. Making sure there's adequate representation is so important to me as a student from a rural DEIS school and I am always open to new ideas and opinions on this issue. I love learning new things and meeting new people and find great pleasure in getting to know students across the country and beyond through events within and outside ISSU. In my school community I'm involved in the choir, trad group, international society, learning hub and of course the student council all of which I find very rewarding. Outside of all this, I love to read, draw/paint and play the banjo with my local Comhaltas Branch. I enjoy going on walks, spending time with friends and family and doing things that I love and feel passionately about. I'm always up for a discussion and if you're looking for me you will most often find me reading, drinking cappuccinos or on a zoom/google meet call. If you would like to contact me or have any questions you can email me or contact the ISSU, and they will direct you to me.
Past Experience: I have been involved in many activities and projects which have demonstrated my leadership abilities and potential. Firstly, I am an active volunteer for Spunout, Irelands national youth organisation as an Action Panel and National Action Panel member. On the action panel I take part in online consultations on topics impacting young people and give my insight as a young person into how Spunout can create future content on this topic. On the National Action Panel, we are required to create a campaign as a group on an issue that is very prevalent for young people. Within my group I act as the co-ordinator which involves keeping the group on track, organising tasks, and liaising with staff on our progress. This is a skill that I would love to be able to bring to the Rúnaí role in supporting the other Coiste Gnós and Leas-Uachtaráin in any way I can as well as working with them on issues I am passionate about. I am also a Youth Lead for Mary’s Meals Ireland, a wonderful charity that provides children from some of the most disadvantaged countries in the world with a meal everyday through their school feeding programme which empowers children to go to school while also giving them access to the nutrients they need. My job as a youth lead involves connecting with other youth leads from around the world, raising awareness and co-ordinating the Irish Youth Ambassadors. In the past I have also addressed the Oireachtas Committee on Education Further and Higher Education Innovation Research and Science on Climate Action Education alongside fellow students, representatives from the ISSU and USI. I believe I have much to bring to this role from these experiences as well as from the passion I hold for student activism and bringing about meaningful change.
What I’d do if elected: If elected as Rúnaí I would love to make progress in so many areas to achieve success for the ISSU. I also plan to act as a support to any Coiste Gnó as well as the Leas Uachtarán and the Uachtarán in any way I can, whether it is on a larger scale such as helping to organise events like Comháil Bliantúil or on a smaller scale by arranging meetings with the other Coiste Gnó. Both tasks are equally important in my eyes as they help the ISSU to run efficiently and to continue to make a meaningful impact on students across the country. I would also love to have the opportunity to collaborate with my fellow Coiste Gnó to not only uplift and support them in their campaigns but to have the opportunity to bring my own suggestions to the table also. Being able to support other Coiste Gnó in their campaigns and making sure they can reach their maximum success would be such a privilege and honour for me. As Rúnaí ensuring that the ISSU continues to improve its inclusivity for all people would be one of my key priorities so that every student feels catered for within the union; whether they are an Oifigeach Réigiúnach (regional officer), Coiste Gnó or school rep. To make things more accessible for students across the country I would propose rotating the location for the in-person events (where possible) to make it easier for students outside Dublin to attend. After all ISSU events are hosted (whether in person or online) I believe that a feedback form should be introduced to give an insight into what went well and what did not so that the next time a similar event is hosted we can learn from past experiences.
Oifigeach Oideachais (Education Officer) Candidates
Alex Caffrey
Grennan College, Co. Kilkenny
Nominated by: Regional Officer Body
Opening Statement: My name is Alex Caffrey, I am an 18-year-old student of Grennan college and will be sitting my Leaving cert this June (how fun). In my time at Grennan I have witnessed firsthand the successes and failures of the Education system, especially for a DEIS school such as mine. These experiences have put me in the position of wanting to help reshape Ireland’s approach to education, moving away from the stale method we have been using for over a hundred years towards a more student focused approach. This is one of the main factors that has encouraged me to run for Oifigeach Oideachais (Education Officer). For the last two years I have been a regional officer for Kilkenny/ Carlow and have greatly enjoyed my time in the ISSU, it has opened the world of student activism to me and allowed me to take an active part in helping to shape the world along with my fellow students and friends. I have been put in the privileged position to meet so many wonderful people and to get to talk and discuss with them the issues facing the students of Ireland, which has allowed me to learn about so many new perspectives and alternative solutions to problems, this communication that leads to new ideas and altered thinking is something I believe to be extremely important, especially in this modern age of people trying to spread their own beliefs while pushing down the voices of others. I believe myself to be a hardworking and motivated person, who is eager to take on the duties and responsibilities of the Oifigeach Oideachais and to help make the student voices be not just heard but listened to.
Past Experience: I have ensured that over the last few years I have real-world experiences to back up me and my ideas, and to show that I understand the seriousness of this role and have the necessary experience to take it on. I’ve spent the last three years as Chairperson of my Student Council, allowing me to represent students and deal with education stakeholders on a local level to deliver change to my school. As the Kilkenny/Carlow Regional Officer for the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity of working with schools acroos the region, focusing much of this work on education-related issues. I know this role, because I’ve experienced it. I’ve been a candidate for Oifigeach Oideachais before and that experience has only made me more determined and more prepared. I've sat at the table with my school’s Board of Directors. I was a member of the ISSU’s 2025 Budget Working Group. I’ve led our school’s debate team as captain, been a member of the Kilkenny Comhairle na nÓg, and taken part in national events like ‘Debate Your Decision Makers' in 2024 & 2025. This position is about work. Whoever takes on this position needs planning and organizational skills, something I have recent experience in, raising over a thousand euro in school for those in need in our community. This position is about assisting everyone, like when I helped to establish both a Sustainability committee and ETHOS leadership committee in my school to help make it a better environment for all. With experience in leadership, debate, student voice, community action, communication, and teamwork, I believe myself to be experienced enough to take on this responsibility and to succeed in its tasks.
What I’d do if elected: If elected I intend to represent the students of Ireland in a transparent and clear way, with a focus on meaningful reform within our education system. My flagship policy is that of practical and realistic Senior and Junior Cycle reform. I believe it is of extreme importance that we ensure that Ireland’s education system stays up to date and even ahead of the curve to allow students to get the best from school, I believe this is not accomplished by simply adding topics and projects to the curriculum as we are seeing happen as of late, but by making the experience of learning more engaging, equipping students with real preparation that will last after school and making sure students aren’t overworked. While the addition to projects to all subjects will take away from the stress of the Leaving Certificate, the fact that the course material that must be covered hasn’t been lessened could easily turn out to be a grave mistake, one that I hope to help work towards finding a solution that keeps us moving in the right direction. Alongside this, I am committed to leading a campaign for Holistic Curriculum Reform, a system that values not only academic achievement, but creativity, critical thinking, mental health, and life skills. Our education system must recognise that every student is different, and success looks different for everyone. Inclusion will be at the core of my actions, education must include every student, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance. No one should feel left behind. Collaboration with key stakeholders across the education sector – teachers, school leaders, parents, the Department of Education, and of course students will be a priority for me. Education reform will only work if we all work together to find a solution.
Conor Clifford
Rosmini Community School, Co. Dublin
Nominated by: Rosmini Community School
Opening Statement: I am Conor, a visually impaired transition year student who has extensive knowledge, skills and experience in politics, being a leader and advocating for oneself and others. The experience I have includes working in many government departments and organisations such as the department of the Taoiseach and the ESB, participating in many workshops and programmes such as a workshop in the Oireachtas and a leadership programme and being apart of many teams and committees such as being a delegate for South Dublin Comhairle na nÒg and being the chairperson of my student council. These experiences have helped me to better improve my knowledge and skills of different government policies, creativity and leading a team to reach its full potential. The reason I would like to get more involved with politics is because I want to advocate for young people of all backgrounds and ethnicities like myself who were left behind and couldn’t be heard by others as I have personally been pulled down in the past because of my disability which I would not want any other young person to ever experience. I have also gone into politics as I would like to improve the country for my generation and future generations as I would not want the future leaders of this country to live in a place that puts too much responsibility for the caring of the country.
Past Experience: I have had many experiences and involvement when it comes to politics, being a leader and advocating for myself and others. The experience I have includes being the chair person of my student council, being a delegate for South Dublin Comhairle na nÒg, working in many government departments and organisations and working closely with ministers and officials. All of these experiences have helped me to improve my leadership skills, government policy skills and knowledge of politics.
What I’d do if elected: if I was elected for Coiste Gnò I would like to achieve many things such as improving the quality of education for students, ensuring that the voice of students it hurt and students of all backgrounds are equal. The reason I would like to achieve these is because I have went through the education system while being visually impaired and not having the correct accommodations that I needed to help me progress which I wouldn’t like for any other student to experience.
Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC) Candidates
Diarmuid Cronin
Gorey Community School, Co. Wexford
Nominated by: -
Opening Statement: Hi, my name is Diarmuid! For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as my school’s ISSU Representative and Student Council Secretary. During this time, I’ve worked on a range of initiatives—from drafting our Council’s constitution in line with ISSU policy to leading fundraisers for LauraLynn and the Irish Cancer Society, implementing a meaningful anti-bullying campaign, and strengthening student voice through annual conferences with local primary schools. These experiences have not only sharpened my organisational and leadership skills but also deepened my understanding of the challenges students face and how the ISSU can advocate for them. I believe my experience, critical thinking, and fresh perspective would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the ISSU’s work. I’m passionate about ensuring every student’s voice is heard, and I would be honoured to play a role in shaping the Union in a way that truly reflect our needs.
Past Experience: The ISSU is a democratic association that works to uphold the voice of students in Ireland. The central structure to the ISSU is its membership, made up of Student Councils across the country with ISSU School Reps acting as the direct liaison. An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil or AGM of the ISSU members acts as the highest governing body of the ISSU. It has the power to amend the ISSU Constitution, ISSU policy book, ISSU Directive Mandates and ISSU Documentation. The Monitoring and Advisory Committee oversees the elected ISSU structures to ensure their work aligns with the organisation’s Constitution, Policy, and aims. An Coiste Gnó is the Union’s elected executive, collectively mandated to lead the Union in their assigned remits. The Regional Officer Body is made up of the RLSO and Regional Officers. The Officers elected by Regional Councils which aim to bring student councils in the region together to debate, discuss and determine the issues and problems students face regionally and nationally, and undertake campaigns to address issues. Working Groups are set up by both the Coiste Gnó and Regional Officers to campaign for a specific issue nationally or regionally. The Secretariat is the administrative body of the ISSU. The Board of Directors of the ISSU uphold the ISSU constitution, oversee strategic planning, legal compliance and pass the Budget.
What I’d do if elected: The ISSU Constitution is the governing rulebook for the Union. It contains rules on how to operate as a union, what our officers roles entail, and how the structure of the Union is set out. It is only amendable by An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil. The Directive Mandates are actionable points proposed and voted on at An Comhdháil Bhliaintúil. The Policy Book outlines the official stance and position of the ISSU on particular issues relating to student life. An Sceim Teanga an Aontais outlines the ISSU's internal policies regarding the Irish Language, as well as the procedures the union has in place to engage with the language.
Orla Quigley
Co. Dublin
Nominated by: Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí
Opening Statement: I’m 17 years old and a 5th year student from Dublin. I’m currently serving as the ISSU’s Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheacha, where I’ve had the opportunity to represent second-level students on sustainability matters. In this role, I’ve worked closely with both students and national stakeholders, including sitting on the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Advisory Group and contributing to interdepartmental work on climate justice and youth policy. I’ve organised national events like Debate Your Decision Makers, giving students the chance to have their voices heard regarding sustainability decisions. I have run campaigns such as the equality in sport campaign and represented the ISSU on many panel discussions, events and on governmental boards. My experience on the Coiste Gnó has given me a good understanding of the structures, values, and operations of the ISSU, as well as how the union runs on a day to day basis. I want to bring that experience to the Monitoring and Advisory Committee to help support and guide the next Oifigeach Inbhuanaitheacha and the new Cóiste Gnó. I understand how important MAC is in maintaining our union’s integrity and helping it evolve, and I'd love the opportunity to participate in this.
Past Experience: The ISSU is a student-led organisation that uplifts and defends student voice. Membership is organised through the student council of member schools. When a student council joins the ISSU, the entire school is considered a member. This ensures that all second-level students in member schools have a voice at both local and national levels. At the core of the ISSU’s structure is An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil, the highest decision making body. This is where students vote on internal and external policy, constitutional amendments, and elect national officers. Two national bodies are elected here: the Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí, act on behalf of the ISSU on a daily basis and who publicly represent the organisation and the Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC), which play an oversight role, ensuring that the union functions in line with its constitution and values. The ISSU Constitution outlines how the union operates, the roles and responsibilities of officers, and the democratic structures in place. It ensures transparency, accountability, and fairness in decision-making. Regional Councils are held annually and elect Regional Officers, who represent students at a local level. Every member school also has an ISSU School Representative, acting as a bridge between their school, the Regional Officers, and the Coiste Gnó. In addition to formal officer roles, the Coiste Gnó can establish Working Groups to focus on specific issues like Education for Sustainable Development, Rural Students, or Period Poverty. These allow students to campaign on targeted issues.
What I’d do if elected: The ISSU’s documents are extremely important in the working of the Union. They uphold transparency, consistency, and student representation. These documents are essential tools in holding the union accountable and ensuring it runs in line with the will of its members. The ISSU Constitution is the most important document. It outlines the structure of the union, the roles and responsibilities of its officers, election procedures, and how decisions are made. It’s essentially the rulebook that governs how we operate and engage as a union. The MAC’s role includes making sure that the Coiste Gnó, Regional Officers, and others are acting in line with the Constitution and upholding it at all times. The Directive Mandate Book contains all the passed directive mandates decided at An Chomhdháil Bhliaintiúil. These mandates guide the Coiste Gnó’s advocacy work and priorities, and MAC helps ensure these are followed properly. The ISSU Policy Book is a collection of all the current policies that have been voted on and approved by ISSU members at An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil. These policies reflect the official stance of the ISSU on a wide range of issues affecting second-level students such as climate action, curriculum reform, mental health supports, period poverty, rural education, and more. Each directive mandate or policy is proposed by Cóiste Gnó officers, Regional officers or any member of the union and are passed by a majority at An Chomhdháil. This means the Coiste Gnó must work to uphold and act on these during their term. These policies and mandates are extremely important as they empower students to set the direction of their union and guide the work of the ISSU so it reflects what the members wish to see implemented.
Jason Tamayo
Woodbrook College, Co. Wicklow
Nominated by: Coiste Gnó na nDaltaí
Opening Statement: Dia daoibh gach duine, my name is Jason Tamayo and I am a 17 year old student currently studying at Woodbrook College in Bray, I am from Bray, County Wicklow. I’m the youngest in my family and I have a passion for playing badminton. My pronouns are he/him and I am pleased to announce that I am running to be on the next of the Monitoring & Advisory Committee! I love being a student activist and trying to make a difference - I love engaging with students and I personally believe I am fit for this position. I love playing the piano and I love singing to my family and cousins back home in the Philippines - I am from the north of the Philippines - Ilocos Sur! I am ready to step into the position and step out of my comfort zone. I’m a strong ambitious individual, with creative skills and I’m very organised. I love representing students and I am ready to represent, uplift, and defend student voices! I have high quality of communication, good event coordination, I work well with others and I like to do work calmly and efficiently. I am very passionate about student voice and ensuring that your voice is heard! I have many aims and achievements I want to accomplish and I want to ensure I want to do it during my term! Go raibh míle maith agat!
Past Experience: My understanding of the structures within ISSU is that it consists of different bodies working towards a union goal. These teams work together to make sure everything runs smoothly such as planning & organising events, and communicating information with each other.
What I’d do if elected: The ISSU Constitution is the main purpose of the union and ensures that officers are in line of the constitution and completing their tasks when necessary. The Directive Mandates & Policies are what tasks that certain officers or the whole Coiste Gnó are mandated to work on throughout their term and the following officers and policies are what the ISSU supports.
