Ms Lorraine Comer:

We are keen to ensure sufficient representation by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government in arts, culture and heritage, as well as education advisory bodies, in the light of the important role local authority arts officers, librarians and other officials play in the area of the arts, culture and education. We are keen to ensure a specific reference to engagement with young people and children and education as part of the remit of local authority arts officers from the perspective of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government. We recommend the establishment of national fora that would include the voices of children and young people. Such fora should initiate debate and discussion on the importance of creativity in citizens' lives. We believe the value of the arts in society needs to be championed and that arts education and culture offer possibilities for creative expression. These are fundamental to human rights. Opportunities for all children and young people to find their voices are essential.