Local Democracy Week

Theme: Supporting Democracy at the Grassroots

We are proud to celebrate European Local Democracy Week 2025 with a special event for schools. This year’s theme, “Supporting Democracy at the Grassroots,” focuses on how local people – especially young people – can help shape decisions in their communities.

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Event Format

Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell will host a Dragons’ Den-style event for schools. Each school will be represented by four students.

• Each team will present a Notice of Motion – an idea or issue they think the Council should discuss.
• Students will have three minutes to pitch their idea, followed by a short Q&A with a panel of Councillors - the "Dragons".
• The panel will include the Chairperson, Women’s Working Group and Youth Voice.
• Refreshments will be provided.

This event gives students a great chance to experience how Council works, develop their debating skills, and raise the issues that matter most to them.

When and Where?

Date: Friday 17 October 2025
Time: 11am 
Venue: Council Boardroom, Downshire Civic Centre, Downpatrick.

Meet Our Finalists

We are excited to announce each of the schools that will be taking part in our Local Democracy Dragons’ Den event are:

• Blackwater Integrated College, Downpatrick
• Kilkeel High School
• Lecale Trinity Grammar School, Downpatrick
• Newry High School
• Newtownhamilton High School
• Our Lady’s Grammar School, Newry
• Sacred Heart Grammar School, Newry
• Shimna Integrated College, Newcastle
• St Colmcille’s High School, Crossgar
• St Joseph’s Boys’ High School, Newry
• St Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel
• St Malachy’s High School, Castlewellan

Get to Know Your Local Council

Do you know how you can make a difference to your local area?

Find out more about local democracy and how to get involved:

Follow The Council and What We Do

Discover Who Your Local Councillor Is 

View the Council Meeting Dates and Minutes

Watch the Latest News

Contact Us

E: [email protected]
T: 0330 137 4011