Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I referred to consultation in the context of the development of the national plan and the Deputy will agree it is necessary to consult young people and hear their views about what needs to change. However, I agree with him about the need to focus on youth unemployment. Clearly, it is a critical area but matching skills is a challenge at European level as well with 2 million jobs available for which the skills match has not been met. It is a major issue at both European and national level.

With regard to the action plan for jobs, I was specifically asked to examine the role youth work can play. A sum of almost €53 million is allocated to youth work and young people are clearly concerned about their employment prospects. I have focused on examining the role youth work can play in supporting young people in their journey towards employment, education or training during the Presidency and I believe the youth work sector can do even more. There are many initiatives around the country through which youth work services are developing the skills mix to which the Deputy referred for young people and working with them to ensure that when jobs become available, they are able to avail of them. However, many young people who are most at risk of unemployment need the opportunity to build their confidence, develop skills and be supported in applying for jobs, all of which can be provided by the youth work sector.

I am examining this issue and working with the National Youth Council of Ireland which has suggested a range of further initiatives in this area. Work and consultations are ongoing.

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