Youth Council meets with Minister to safeguard youth work for young people

The budget for the youth sector which funds youth work in almost every community in Ireland has already sustained a substantial 10% cut in the October 2008 budget. Any further cuts in the budget on April 7th will seriously damage youth work and deprive young people across the country, especially those in disadvantaged areas from participating in the essential youth services which helps shape their personal and social development.

“The 10% cut in funding is having a negative impact on youth work and young people across the country. By slashing funding, many young people will no longer have the opportunity to participate in activities which makes such a positive contribution to their lives and to their communities. Youth work provides a unique learning environment for young people that empowers them, and helps them develop a wider set of skills and increased self confidence. This helps to give young people greater opportunities and options for the future along with enabling them to play an active role in their communities and tackle real social issues,” stated Eddie D’Arcy, President of the National Youth Council of Ireland.

The prospect of further cuts is very alarming for the youth sector. Activities, work and supports built up over many years will be reduced and in some instances stopped completely. “While we understand that cutbacks need to be made, we believe that young people must not be punished for the mistakes of adults. All young people in Ireland need access to a range of youth work experiences and activities which help them make positive, constructive choices, gain skills and learn from their experiences in a supportive environment. By cutting funds to youth work, we are jeopardising essential services that support young people, families and communities at a time when they need them most,” concluded Mr. D’Arcy.

ENDS

For further information, please contact Clodagh O’Brien, Communications Officer at NYCI on 087 781 4903 or 01 425 5955 or email communications@nyci.ie

National Youth Council of Ireland

The National Youth Council of Ireland is a membership-led umbrella organisation that represents and supports the interests of 55 voluntary youth organisations and uses its collective experience to act on issues that impact on young people.