We all have some idea about what citizenship means but the term can be described in a few different contexts.
The first, and most widely accepted, definition is in a political and legal context where ‘citizenship’ is used to explain that someone is a member of a political community or state whereby the citizen has certain rights and responsibilities that are defined in the laws of this community or state. For example, most of us are citizens of Ireland and, among many other things this means that we have the right to vote and the right to free speech. However, we also have the responsibilities that come with being a citizen, such as the responsibility to pay our taxes and to obey the criminal laws enacted by the government. We are also European & Global citizens.
Citizenship does not only refer to our rights and responsibilities that are laid down in law but it is also refers to our social and moral behaviour. As a citizen of a community or state, you are expected to exercise your rights and respect the rights of others and you are encouraged to participate in the improvement of the quality of both political and civic life in your community and/or state. This is often referred to as active citizenship, where direct democratic participation and feelings of responsibility for own community is encouraged.
Green-Schools Officer swims, cycles and runs for Trocaire
On June the 30th 2012 Mieke Scholte, our fantastic colleague here in the Green-Schools office decided to challenge herself to participate in the Athlone triathlon and raise funds for Trocaire at the same time. Mieke managed to finish her first ever triathlon in 1 hour and 47 minutes and 6 
seconds, and was first over the finish line in her category, a great achievement! On top of that she also raised €805 for Trocaire who she supported because of its work for social justice, its fight against climate change and its connection with our Green-Schools Global Citizenship flag.
Thank you Mieke and well done!!