In this submission NYCI outlines what we believe should be Government priorities for action and spending in Budget 2016;

1. Invest in Youth Work Services

Increase investment in Youth Work Services in light of the growing numbers of young people and to ensure implementation of the National Youth Strategy

2. Providing supports for most disadvantaged young jobseekers

Increase the investment to the Youth Employability Initiative to €3m to support projects by the youth work sector to address needs of long-term unemployed jobseekers

3. Incentivise education, training and work for young jobseekers

Restore the adult rate of €188 to all young jobseekers under 26 years who are participating in education, training and work experience opportunities

4. Tackling Alcohol Related Harm

Introduce a 1.25% social responsibility levy on drinks manufacturers to generate funds to replace the sponsorship of large sporting events by the drinks industry

5. Promoting Youth Participation in the Democratic Process

Introduce a Youth Voter Registration and Participation Initiative to promote voter registration and mobilisation