On the 18th of December I went to attend the first ever TY Houses of the Oireachtas internship programme for a week. After submitting a short essay I was selected amongst 18 people around the country.

In Leinster house I visited the Dáil and Seanad and witnessed committee hearing over travelling community. Throughout the week we had different speakers from Senators, TDs to parliamentary assistants.

On my final day I was lucky enough to meet my local TD Michael Moynihan and watch him debate during parliamentary questions over mental health issues.

Overall it was a fascinating experience to see the different aspects of the Dáil and I hope to return one day.

Daniel Philpott Vendrells TY student