Congratulations to Peter Delahunt (12CG) on making his first senior debating final and securing the prestigious Br. McFarland Trophy. Both guest speaker, Martina Purdy, Political Correspondent with BBC NI, and sponsor, Rory McShane, spoke about the quality of debating amongst finalists at this highlight of the school’s competition calendar. Well done also to Killian Feehan and Niall McArdle for their second and third places in a tightly fought contest and to the talented finalists: Gregory McChesney, Ben Sutherland, Michael Haddad, John McCaul and Terry Dinsmore.

All eight finalists spoke with authority on the motion, ‘This House would raise the age of criminal responsibility’ and the adjudicators agreed deciding who would claim the top places was extremely difficult. With ex tempore motions providing an entertaining respite from the gravity of the main motion competitors showcased their talents assuring this final will be hotly contested in future years too.

2010 was the first year in the senior debating competition that saw over fifty candidates debate for the preliminary rounds on the motion, ‘This House believes that all UK citizens should have to complete one year’s national service.’ The opening rounds were contentious and well argued making the elimination of debaters difficult.

2010 was therefore the first year of the debate to extend the competitive run with semi-finals who argued for or against ‘This House believes that Third World donations are ineffective.’ On final night pupils from Years 9 and 11 were also in attendance to receive awards for their successes in the in-house competitions run prior to the senior competition.

Thanks as always to our sponsor, our guest speaker, the many staff members who helped with facilitating debates – particularly my English Department colleagues - chairing rounds, wishing the boys’ success and to the many parents who supported the event. Lastly congratulations to all debaters from across the year groups. I look forward to seeing you in the new term assured that the tradition of Abbey debating will continue to thrive.

A Reynolds