Ten Cork teens recognised at Comhairle na nÓg showcase 

Ten young people from Cork were recognised last week at the Comhairle na nÓg’s National Showcase at Dublin Castle.

The biannual event was attended by more than 400 young people aged between 12 and 17, as well as by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and by Norma Foley, the minister for children, disability and equality.

Hosted by presenter and podcaster Fionnuala Jones, in conjunction with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), the event provided a platform for the 31 Comhairle na nÓg groups to present their work and connect with decision-makers on policies that impact their lives.

The showcase highlighted the power of youth-led action and demonstrated how young people are influencing policy development at local and national levels.

Throughout the day, young people participated in panel discussions, interactive exhibitions, networking sessions, and had discussions on pressing issues, such as mental health, education reform, climate action, transport, and youth rights.

Connor Knapp, of Cork city Comhairle na nÓg, said that the showcase enabled young people to network and share knowledge with new peers from different parts of the country.

“The most important aspect of the Comhairle showcase is connection: It allows young people from all over the country to connect with each other, to share ideas and perspectives and, most of all, to connect with decision makers,” said Mr Knapp.

“As well as that, we are given the opportunity to see the work of other comhairlí, and bring those ideas back to our own comhairle and our own projects.”

Mr Martin praised the groups at the showcase, saying that it is of the “upmost importance” for government officials to hear the thoughts of Ireland’s next generation on current and political affairs.

“Comhairle na nÓg provides young people across the country with the opportunity to have their voices heard,” said Mr Martin.

“I am delighted to see so many energetic and engaged young people here today, expressing their views on topics that impact them. 

“It is of the utmost importance that we consider their inputs, and keep their futures in mind, in all of our government’s work.”