Niall Blaney (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I thank the group for their presentation today. Like Mr. Hughes, I agree that they are current leaders. They are leading here today, through what they have demonstrated and what they have done. Like Senator Stephenson, I remember entering politics in 1999, and the nerves were hard work. They really were. They have not gone away. They still exist, but you learn to cope better. It only evolves with practice. Dealing with my own thoughts was my biggest challenge. I was my own biggest critic. The group are certainly taking their first steps as future leaders. No matter what they do in life, it is about building their CV, and they are certainly starting theirs. Well done on their presentation, first and foremost, and to Co-operation Ireland for having the group in and bringing diverse groups like this together.

It reminds me of another group that exists, a North-South group called Politics in Action. This year, it is bringing together second level kids from North and South. This year, there are two schools in Donegal, the Royal in Raphoe and the Loreto in Milford, coming together with Lismore College in Armagh and Magherafelt High School in Derry. The power of those groups coming together and sharing their knowledge of their backgrounds, and realising that we do not have that much difference, just perceptions, is significant. The group are breaking down so many barriers by coming here today and presenting in the way they do. That is extremely powerful. They gave a powerful message here today and are creating their own vision of education. As policymakers, we certainly have to sit up and listen to that.

We certainly want to carry their vision. In light of that, I think it is only right that we write to the education ministers, North and South, about the vision, share it with them and ask them to consider it. We could also maybe write to the committees on education. I ask that we write to the committee in this House and maybe Stormont as well, to ask that they all consider it. We are spreading the witnesses' word, particularly to those who deal with it in depth. Just like our committee on the Good Friday Agreement, the committee deals with education. It will be a powerful message to send to it.

I heard the witnesses' views on voting. It was good to hear diverse opinions. I have three kids, aged 19, 17 and 15. They are all about to turn another year. It is incredible how kids today are probably more informed at 16 than many of the voters who are aged between 18 and 90 or 100, because of their presence on and use of TikTok. Ms Hunter referred to the mayor of New York. I wonder how many in Leinster House are aware of what is happening in politics in New York.