Debating (English)
Debating at CUS – Speak Up, Stand Out
Where Confidence, Critical Thinking, and Community Come Together
The Literary and Debating Society at Catholic University School provides students with a vibrant space to express opinions, challenge ideas, and explore the issues shaping our world. Meeting every Tuesday afternoon, the society covers a wide range of motions, from political and ethical debates to philosophical discussions and the occasional light-hearted topic.
Debating at CUS is open to students of all ages and abilities and is run by Ms. McNamara and Mr. Doyle, who guide and mentor students through workshops, mock debates, and competitions. The activity not only builds communication, critical thinking, and literacy skills, but also reflects the heart of the Marist ethos, encouraging respectful dialogue, leadership, and intellectual curiosity.
CUS debating teams have enjoyed great success across Junior and Senior levels. Highlights include:
Eight junior debaters competed at UCD’s Law Society event, with James O’Brien and Jamie Furey finishing first in their respective rooms and multiple others placing second. Daniel (3rd Year) and James (2nd Year) reached the final four of the Junior National Mace Final, earning medals from a field of 72 teams and 144 participants. Junior Debating has continued to flourish. Mark O’Callaghan shared his experience of reaching the UCD final, debating topics like disposable vapes, AI regulation, and environmental responsibility. Although they fell just short in the final round, the experience left a lasting impact. The Senior Debating team tackled motions such as “This House Believes Ireland Should Abandon Its Neutrality” and “This House Regrets the Existence of Airbnbs,” adapting to formats ranging from weeks of preparation to 15-minute impromptu rounds in the L&H Mace format. Their final season was a strong one, with team members like Harry Deery (6th Year) helping maintain a proud tradition of debating excellence.
CUS also proudly competes in both English and Irish, participating in inter-school, national, and international competitions, a testament to the depth and diversity of talent within the society.
Whether you are a seasoned speaker or someone simply curious to give it a try, debating at CUS is a place where ideas thrive, voices grow, and students learn to think and speak for themselves.
