Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is important that we acknowledge these initiatives. If this proposal is accepted and comes into effect, it will empower 16 year olds to engage in petitioning under the European citizens' initiative. If it gets through this process, it is proposed that it will come into effect in 2019. This is important given that Ireland, regrettably, does not allow 16 year olds and 17 year olds to vote. This matter has been debated in both Houses of the Oireachtas. I think we should engage with more young people in the political process at local, regional, national and European levels. The effect of this proposal would be to give young people aged 16 and 17 the right to petition the EU under the European citizens' initiative. I think that is welcome and important.