Evanne Ní Chuilinn (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am glad this question was asked as I was going to do so and then all my time would have been gone. Ms Maher's face lit up when she was telling us about it. This is what working with young people is all about. I know it is easy for us sometimes to sit here and thank people for the work they do because it can sound patronising but we do really mean it. It is so important. I married a youth worker and he ran a drug education and prevention programme for years out in Blanchardstown with young boys in football. I know the value of it. I also know how empowered young people feel and this is exactly what Ms Maher was doing with the escape rooms. She was empowering them to make their own decisions.

I want to ask about the youth voice which Ms Maher mentioned in her opening statement. It is so important this voice is heard and comes across in this hearing. Will Ms Maher give us an idea of what young people feel is the landscape for them and the supports they are getting or not getting? Youth workers and task forces do their best but how do the young people feel?