Ms Rachael Murphy:

In the strategy, we welcome the fact that the work is valued. That is a really good, positive recognition. The bottom line is that we need to be valued. The work that professional youth workers and volunteer youth workers do day-in, day-out up and down the country supporting our young people, needs to be valued. It is difficult to see the political will to value it. We are told it is valued, that it is great and it is brilliant, but in real terms, as Ms Cunningham alluded to, the budget for youth work has not increased significantly. It needs substantial investment. Our young people deserve that from the Government. So far, despite our pleas and lobbying, we have failed to achieve that or the Government has failed to invest in youth work to the extent that is required.