Posted online: Jun 12th, 2008

Two budding politicians are to set up a youth branch of Fianna Fail in the peninsula.Ogra Fianna Fail is being established by  Carol Faulker (23), from Quigley’s Point, and Kevin Kelly (21), from Clonmany.Carol, Senator  Cecilia Keaveney’s parliamentary assistant, said the group was aimed at 16-26 year olds who were interested in politics.She said: “Ógra Fianna Fáil is the largest and most active youth political movement in the country. I have a very strong interest in politics which has led to  decision to set up Ógra in Inishowen. “Kevin, who is also heavily involved in politics in DCU, got in touch with me and was also keen to get Ógra up and going. It has really gone from there. The idea has also been met with great enthusiasm by the senior party members of the constituency.“Being involved in Ógra gives young people a unique opportunity to voice their fears and concerns on policy issues that directly affect them as well as having the opportunity to take part in a great range of social activities. So if you are someone who feels disillusioned with the political system then this is your opportunity to help change things! She revealed two “information”| meetings would held to ascertain the level of interest in Inishowen. She added:  “At these meetings we will give a general outline of what Ógra is and what we aim to do when established.”Kevin said he new group would give young people the chance to meet “likeminded individuals” as well as enabling them to have their voice heard both by local Councillors and Oireachtas members alike. He added: “Currently many Government decisions are partly shaped by consultation with Ógra members. This is done through the submission of policy papers as well as through direct communication with various Government members. An example where this occurred was the process leading up to the leaving Certificate reforms.”The first  “information” meeting will take place in Caiseal Mara Hotel, Moville, at 7.30pm on Monday next, June 16, with the second being held the following Monday, June 23, at 8.30pm in the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana.