Mayo student among winners in Essay competition hosted by MEP

A young student from Mayo is among the winners of a nation-wide essay competition organised by MEP Nina Carberry, bringing a Mayo perspective to a programme designed to inspire civic engagement among primary school pupils.

Fifth and sixth class students across the Midland North West were invited to respond to the question: “If you were an MEP, what would you do to make your community the best place to live?” Winners were selected from numerous entries, with Ciara Bourke of St Peter’s NS, Snugboro, Castlebar, Co Mayo among those recognised for their creative and thoughtful submissions. 

“As an 11 year old girl living in Co Mayo, I know my voice may be small but if everyone works together, we can all make a difference to make our community a better place to live. You can always give something even if it’s only kindness,” wrote Ciara in her essay.

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“I’m delighted to congratulate all of our winners,” Carberry said in an announcement celebrating the pupils’ achievements. The competition not only showcased young talent but also offered a chance for students to learn about the role of Members of the European Parliament in shaping policy that affects local communities. 

This year’s prize will once again see the winners travel to Brussels, where they will meet MEPs and enjoy a guided tour of the European Parliament — giving them a unique first-hand insight into European political life and the legislative process. 

Open to children living in the 15-county Midlands-North West region, the initiative challenges young people to think critically about community, representation and how EU decision-making can be a force for positive change.