Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for giving that commitment to meet with the council's representatives.

This is a two-way matter because the State also has a responsibility to review the resources at its disposal, including public buildings and schools. What resources does the State have, other than cash transfers, in order to support youth work? How can it stretch itself to deliver more in this regard?

The Minister mentioned challenges and opportunities, including the youth policy framework and the EU Presidency. While none of us envies the many decisions the Minister will have to make in the future, Senators can also see themselves as resources for the State. During the forthcoming EU Presidency, if we can assist the development of the youth policy framework and the decisions that have to be made in that respect, we will do so. That was evidenced in today's debate.

Everybody knows that we are in the most horrible times and difficult decisions need to be made. We need to know, however, where we are going with those decisions. We may say "Yes" to reform, but what comes afterwards? Do we all recognise the pathway ahead? We must all work together in building the youth policy framework. The process is very important so the relevant organisations need to buy into it as much as the State does. We must work together to ensure that the next time Indecon and the National Youth Council of Ireland contribute a report, perhaps they will have an increased value. I think, however, that 2.2 is a pretty good return on investment. If any bank gave me that rate at the moment I would take it. It is a pretty good investment so the more we can do to work together, the better.

I thank the Minister for having given a commitment to meet with the National Youth Council of Ireland on this issue. Hopefully, we can work together on this matter in the future.