Cork students visit Seanad to represent priorities of young people

Cork students, who are members of the Comhairle na nÓg, attended the second Seanad na nÓg event in Leinster House earlier this month.

Some 60 delegates, under 18 years of age, came together with several organisations and members of Government to discuss their priorities ahead of Ireland’s assumption of the EU presidency in 2026.

The cathaoirleach and leas-chathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, senators Mark Daly and senator Maria Byrne, were among the members of Government in attendance, as well as Norma Foley, the minister for children, disability, and equality.

At the event, Mr Daly said the Seanad continues to “empower the voice of young people... The Seanad has championed minority voices since its foundation.

“Today, we will absorb their wisdom, reflect on their insights, and act on their recommendations.”

Speaking ahead of the event, Ms Byrne said it “really does emphasise the importance of providing our young people with a voice in the development of local services and policies”.

“I very much look forward to co-chairing the meeting and reading the recommendations that will be presented to the Government for consideration to be included in Ireland’s priorities for Ireland’s EU presidency in June 2026,” said Ms Byrne.

Priorities identified by the young delegates for the Government to consider include examining peace and security in a digital world and the threats of deepfakes; promoting climate action in an inclusive and co-operative manner to tackle the climate crisis; and examining the cost of living through the lens of a young person or person with a disability.

Other priorities included advocating for increased mental health supports and community service to be funded as early intervention mechanisms to prevent the misuse of substances; improving circumstances for children in the care system to create better outcomes for them; and looking at the need to continue to strengthen the rights for all, and to come together and stand with those who fear, or are experiencing, inequality.