Local pupils to debate the use of performance enhancing drugs in professional sports

Pupils from schools across Scotland are getting ready to debate the use of performance enhancing drugs in professional sports in the second round of the Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Tournament.

The opening rounds of the Law Society of Scotland tournament saw 128 teams from 85 Scottish schools putting their powers of persuasion to the test as they debated on the pros and cons of the use of performance enhancing drugs in professional sports. Fifty-seven teams made it through to the next stage of the competition and are now preparing to debate the motion ‘This house would permit the use of performance enhancing drugs in professional sports’ in the second round heats.

Heather McKendrick, head of careers and outreach at the Law Society (pictured), said: “The Donald Dewar Debating Tournament is now in its 17th year and is just going from strength to strength. We are delighted to see that of the 10 schools taking part in the competition for the first time, six have made it through to the next round.

The tournament is an excellent opportunity for the pupils to develop their skills in critical thinking, learn how to express their views and opinions and grow in confidence – not to mention the fun to be had.

“Many schools acknowledge the value debating has to offer and have their own clubs and societies.

“The opening round saw the teams debate a potential ban on referendums. I now look forward to seeing how the teams approach the next motion on performance enhancing drugs in professional sports.

“The June final in the Scottish Parliament’s debating chamber was an exciting finish to the last tournament, with superb performances from some very talented young people as they debated on the right to be forgotten online.”

Second round heats are taking place on 26 and 31 January and the semi-finals will be held in March before the final in June.

The Law Society awards the first prize of £1,000 and the top two teams will share educational books to the value of £500 donated by the event sponsor, Hodder Gibson.

Further information and a Law Society video about the tournament featuring the 2013/14 winners and runners up can be found at www.lawscot.org.uk/debating.