Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. It is important to note that the National Youth Council of Ireland described the budget, particularly the allocation for youth work, as a missed opportunity. It said it was disappointing and falls short of what is critically needed to support Ireland's growing youth population. The confirmed €7 million for the expansion of youth work services is less than half of what was advocated for by young people and the sector, which was €15 million. Both Foróige and the National Youth Council of Ireland advocated for that amount. They also highlighted, given the many pressures young people are under, the need and increasing demand for youth work services. They were disappointed with the allocation and I want to put that on the record. They released a statement in response to the budget once the budget was announced.

It is important we acknowledge the absolute importance of youth work throughout the State now more than ever, given the many pressures young people are under, particularly when it comes to mental health and the need for them to have those spaces in rural and urban areas.

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