Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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604. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs his views on the removal of youth affairs from the title of his Department; his further views on whether this will result in a lack of focus on young persons under 25 years of age who will bear a considerable burden of Covid-19 in particular those from disadvantaged communities(details supplied) [14499/20]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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I want to assure the Deputy that, despite 'Youth Affairs' not appearing in the title of the new 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.