Cookstown High School history pupils visit Stormont

wenty-seven members of the school’s History Club alongside pupils from the Learning Support Unit were accompanied by Mrs S Allen and Mr J Hastings.

Upon arrival at Stormont, the first part of the tour involved some information about the Northern Ireland Assembly. Then pupils were treated to some visits from MLAs, including local MLA, Mr Keith Buchanan, who spoke about his route into politics. With the opportunity for a ‘question and answer’ session, pupils asked Mr Buchanan his view on the EU Referendum.

Mr Mike Nesbitt, leader of the Ulster Unionist Party popped in for a chat. Mr Nesbitt was asked to give his views on ‘Brexit’ and it was very interesting for pupils to hear both sides of the argument. The group then began their tour of the building by taking in all of the fine intricacies of the Great Hall.

They were given the opportunity to observe a debate in motion in the Assembly Chamber. The tour was completed in the Senate Chamber, where they received a short history of Stormont and the building itself. Another MLA, Mr Steven Agnew, also popped in to say hello.