From Rathfeigh to Brussels: Meath student meets EU Parliament President after essay win
A Meath schoolboy has travelled to Brussels and met the President of the European Parliament after winning an essay competition run by MEP Nina Carberry.
Niall O’Rourke, a fifth-class pupil from Rathfeigh National School, was selected as a winner of Ms Carberry’s annual competition.
The Midlands–North-West MEP invited fifth and sixth class pupils from across the region to respond to the question: “If you were an MEP, what would you do to make your community a better place to live?”
With hundreds of entries submitted, Niall’s essay was chosen for “its creativity and thoughtful approach”.
His submission focused on practical ideas, including improving road safety, enhancing local sports facilities, and developing walking routes and footpaths in his area.
As part of the prize, Niall and his parents travelled to Brussels this week, where they visited the European Parliament and met Ms Carberry.
During the visit, he also met European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, who presented the award.
Speaking about the competition, Ms Carberry said the standard of entries was “really inspiring”.
“It’s so important that young people have their voices heard and take an interest in what is happening in their communities,” she said.
“You never know, we might see Niall as an MEP in Brussels in the not-too-distant future,” she added.
The trip also included a behind-the-scenes tour of the European Parliament, giving students an insight into how EU institutions operate and the role of elected representatives.