Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

597. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of young persons involved in youth organisations due to the loss of the youth affairs title in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14343/20]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

While I am aware of some concerns along the lines outlined I can assure the Deputy that, despite 'Youth Affairs' not appearing in the title of the Department, it very much remains central to the remit of my Department. Funding to the Youth sector has been protected through the current period of financial challenge and I will strive to ensure that the profile of young people and their needs remains high throughout my time in office.

I am particularly keen to ensure that the needs of vulnerable, marginalised and disadvantaged young people are taken into account, with specific consideration of how these needs have been impacted or exacerbated by Covid-19 and the resulting restrictions.

My officials and I will continue to work closely with sectorial representatives and young people themselves to ensure that strategy and resourcing is planned carefully to support the needs of young people in an optimum way.