By Dan Walsh
The Annual Youth Conference of Wexford Comhairle na nÓg was held in the Council Chamber of Wexford’s County Hall with 100 young people from secondary schools and youth organisations across county Wexford in attendance.
The Annual Youth Conference is a chance for young people’s voices to be heard. A wide range of issues impacting the lives of young people were identified, and ways in which Comhairle na nÓg can address these issues were discussed.
Attended by Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen, the event gave the young people the opportunity to understand the weight and value of their opinions as members of Comhairle na nÓg. “As Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council I am delighted to support this continued partnership with Comhairle na nÓg. We welcome young people’s views and take them on board when developing policies for the future of Wexford”, said Cllr Breen.
New members were elected to join the current Comhairle and together these representatives will form the Wexford Comhairle na nÓg, representing young people in County Wexford during 2024 – 2025. This group will examine the issues identified at the Annual Youth Conference and discuss measures which could be put in place to make a positive difference. They will discuss ways to ensure that decision makers create opportunities for young people to have their say and contribute to determining the type of society they wish to live in.
“It’s all about providing a platform for young people to have their voices heard on issues which affect their lives. We invited three students from each school and several youth groups from across County Wexford to join. This ensures we have good geographical representation and a cross-section of diverse voices. The young people were wonderfully engaged, informed and insightful.”, said Avril O’Sullivan, the Wexford Comhairle na nÓg co-ordinator.
Director of Services for Wexford County Council, Carolyne Godkin said; “I wish to compliment and congratulate the members of Wexford Comhairle na nÓg and the FDYS on this year’s event. Encouraging and facilitating the voice of young people to be heard in a structured and professional way is important for policy makers and service providers alike. These young people have given up their time to represent their cohort and their commitment and contribution deserves to be recognised.”
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