Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The national participation framework for children and young people's participation in decision making was published in April last year. It plays a vital role in ensuring that all children and young people are respected and listened to and that their views are taken on board routinely in the public services offered to them.

The framework's implementation is actively supported by my Department through the capacity-building measures and training provided by Hub na nÓg. The hub was established as a centre of excellence and co-ordination to drive and support children and young people's participation in decision making nationally. In 2021, phase 1 of a capacity-building grant to train staff in the use of the framework was allocated to arts organisations, disability, homelessness and Traveller service providers, the justice sector and early learning and childcare services. A key feature of this €150,000 grant is that funded organisations must also undertake training from Hub na nÓg. That training provides an understanding of the policy commitment to the voice of the child. Practitioners are provided with tools that enable them to involve children and young people in decision making in their day-to-day services and activities. In 2022, phase 2 of the capacity grant scheme will see sporting organisations and youth services included.

Hub na nÓg also continues to engage bilaterally with Government Departments, agencies and key stakeholders. Further methodologies for seldom heard children and younger children are being developed. Hub na nÓg is also working with academic partners to develop an online training module.

The vision of the framework is about participation with purpose. This will ensure that, when young people are involved in decision making, their views are listened to and given due weight with the intention of influencing the outcome or initiating change. This vision recognises our children as citizens of today and not just as the adults of tomorrow.

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