UCC public debate to examine the reality of life in Ireland today

29 May 2026

• New public debate series hosted by UCC College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences.
• First event in new series to explore if Ireland is falling behind where it matters.

Ireland is often presented as one of Europe’s modern success stories, driven by economic growth, global investment, and an increasingly influential international profile. Yet, many people across Ireland are experiencing mounting pressures in daily life, from rising housing costs and strained public services to infrastructure challenges and growing uncertainty around long-term opportunity and quality of life.

A public debate at University College Cork (UCC) will examine the question: Is Ireland falling behind where it matters?

Taking place at 6pm on Thursday, 4 June, the debate, hosted by UCC College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences, aims to encourage critical thinking, showcase diverse perspectives, and foster meaningful public conversation around the major issues shaping society today.

Speakers include:

• Professor Vittorio Bufacchi, Professor of Political Philosophy, UCC Department of Philosophy
• Dr David Woods, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Classics at UCC, and
• Dr Emma Nic Cárthaigh, Senior Lecturer in Early and Medieval Irish in the School of Irish Learning at UCC.

The event will be moderated by Professor Stephen Graham, Head of UCC College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences.

Professor Stephen Graham said: “This event responds to Professor Vittorio Bufacchi’s article in the Examiner, Reflections of a blow-in after 25 years living in Cork, which explored questions of Irish identity, history and culture across a broad canvas. The article examined issues ranging from the relationship between church and state, and the historical influence of the Catholic Church, to immigration, politics, morality, and the role of UCC, arts and culture in Cork life.”

“The discussion builds on those reflections by inviting both panellists and audience members to consider the continuing evolution of Irish society and identity. Rather than following a formal debate structure, the event will begin with short opening contributions from each panellist before opening into a wider public conversation,” said Professor Stephen Graham.

Doors will open at 5.30pm, with the debate beginning at 6pm, on Thursday, 4 June in the Dr Dora Allman Room, The Hub, UCC.

Members of the public are encouraged to register in advance online.