The Seanad has passed a motion that calls on the Government to “significantly increase current investment in the youth work sector to address current funding deficits” and acknowledges the critical role that youth work plays in the personal, social, and educational development of young people in Ireland.
NYCI welcomes the cross‑Seanad support for this important Private Members’ motion on investment in youth work discussed on Wednesday 15th April, and the clear recognition it gives to the vital role youth work plays in the lives of young people, their families and communities.
Youth work in Ireland is a cornerstone of our society. It provides young people with the spaces and opportunities to build relationships, explore their identity, develop skills and confidence, and feel a sense of belonging. The relationships young people have with themselves, with others, and with their communities matter deeply, and all young people should have access to the resources, spaces and supports they need to live fulfilling lives. This is where youth work plays a vital role, and why sustained and strategic investment is so critical.
The motion rightly acknowledges the pressures facing youth services, youth workers and volunteers, the impact of rising costs and increased demand, and the need for meaningful engagement with the sector in shaping policy and delivery. It also reflects a growing understanding that youth work must be properly resourced, supported through multi‑annual funding, and underpinned by investment in places and spaces where youth work can happen.
This debate comes at an opportune moment, as NYCI prepares to commence its Pre‑Budget campaign, underpinned by the sectoral Pre‑Budget Submission ‘Securing the Foundations of Youth Work’. That means ensuring existing youth services are sustainable, well resourced, and able to remain present for the young people who already rely on them. A well‑funded, sustainable core is the platform from which innovation, additionality and strategic development naturally emerge.
While this Seanad debate is an important milestone, youth work cannot be the subject of one debate alone. Given its relevance to issues such as online harms, social isolation, mental health pressures, youth unemployment and poverty – issues that increasingly overlap and cut across departmental boundaries – youth work must be visible in everyday policy discussions and reflected consistently in funding decisions.
Thanks to Senators Pauline Tully, Senator Mary Fitzpatrick, Chris Andrews, Senator Shane Curley, Gareth Scahill, Senator Aubrey McCarthy, Nessa Cosgrove, Eileen Flynn, Victor Boyhan and Patricia Stephenson for their powerful contributions recognising and supporting youth work.
The passage of this motion is a strong signal of support. The next step is turning that recognition into sustained investment, so youth work can continue to change lives in every community across Ireland.