NYCI welcomes inclusion of youth priorities in Programme for Government
Warns of need for ‘Youth’ in ministerial title
The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) has welcomed the publication of the Programme for Government, which includes a specific section on youth services. This recognition of the role of youth services and youth workers across every community and town in Ireland is an important step forward, according to the NYCI, which represents organisations working with young people nationwide.
However, the NYCI has raised concerns over the lack of reference to the recently published National Youth Work Strategy, Opportunities for Youth, instead a new Youth Services Action Plan is referred to. This apparent shift raises questions about the political understanding of youth work and the sector’s needs, as underscored by polling conducted by NYCI last year, with 72% of adults agreeing that politicians have a lack of awareness about youth work services.
Need to keep ‘Youth’ in ministerial title
NYCI is also calling for the retention of ‘Youth’ in a ministerial title to underscore the importance of young people and youth work in the new Government’s agenda. Kathryn Walsh added: “While it is encouraging to see youth services recognised in the Programme for Government, retaining ‘Youth’ in a ministerial title is essential to ensure young people remain a clear priority for the next Government.
“This small but significant decision would send a strong message about the value placed on young people and the sector that supports them. The lack of understanding on what exists in terms of policy on youth work underscores the need for Youth to be retained at a senior Ministerial level”
Holding the Government to Account
“NYCI and its member organisations are committed to holding the Government accountable for its promises to the youth sector. Over the next five years, the organisation will work closely with members of the Oireachtas to ensure these commitments are fully realised and that young people remain central to government policy.
“NYCI looks forward to collaborating with all parties and stakeholders to ensure that the Programme for Government delivers for young people and youth work. The sector has shown incredible resilience and impact, and now is the time for robust support and investment,” Walsh concluded.
Want more in-depth information? Read NYCI’s initial analysis of the Programme for Government.