Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is an honour to be here to hear the witnesses' voices. I felt so emotional listening to them that a few times I nearly burst into tears because they were so inspiring. I feel our future in this country is in safe hands because we have young people like these here with us. It really is a privilege, and I thank them all. Some of them have travelled from far and wide to be here. I also thank the Cathaoirleach for pulling all this together because it truly is a wonderful day. It is the beginning of something new and fresh. Eoin mentioned conversation. This is the conversation that needs to be had. Thankfully, these young people are all here today to have this conversation. We should not be afraid of this conversation any more. We must have it. We must talk about planning and preparing for possible constitutional change in future. There definitely has been a shift in this regard. A huge event is happening in the 3Arena concerning having this conversation with all parties. It is so refreshing to hear all the voices here today. Ireland's future is in their hands, and it is in safe hands.

Turning to my questions, reference was made to the fact that many young people in the North of Ireland have limited opportunities for cross-community interaction because, and this is contained in the submission that was given, they attend different schools and play different sports. What do the witnesses think could be done to promote greater contact and understanding among young people, North and South? How can Governments, North and South, better support voluntary organisations, like those represented here today, in working with young people? Those are my two questions.