 This week DCU's debate society held a debate on whether or not student unions should take a neutral stance on the topic of abortion. What with the question of whether abortion should be illegal or not in Ireland being highly topical these days, the debate attracted a crowd of students, all with varying opinions on the matter. Chairperson of the debate society, Pierce Lonergan, highlighted the importance of encouraging healthy debate among students on issues that may affect their college experience. With the 8th Amendment going to referendum next year, it's become even more topical this year so we thought it was a perfect time to have the discussion. And we think it's better to have the discussion a long time beforehand than next year when it's going to be even more toxic and maybe emotions will be too high to have a clear and calm discussion. Speakers involved both proposing and opposing the motion delivered their points to the audience with conviction, stimulating an opinionated yet respectful discussion between team members and audience members alike. The speakers you took part on both sides of the debate were pleased with the outcome and thankful for the opportunity to voice their opinions in a civil environment. I thought it went really well. It's really important to have these discussions and debates on topical issues such as abortion. So it's really good that we are having a conversation and I hope that it kind of encourages a lot more conversation and carry on from here. The colleges are, you know, they're for, you know, good discussion and you can see that it's a pity that a lot more colleges are clapping down on that sort of thing. But I'm glad that DCU is, um, free speech on DCU campus is thriving and I'm very happy that is the case. Overall, the motion, student unions should be neutral on abortion made for an extremely interesting debate with the opposition winning. Although results from the debate are not binding, it's certainly gotten people talking. Michelle Townsend, DCU TV News. Thank you.