Gillian Toole (Meath East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1949. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when a youth Senator position will be established; if all committees of the 34th Dáil will be required to include 50% youth affairs in subject matter agenda and discussion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21026/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am not aware of plans to establish a youth Senator position, so cannot advise the Deputy on when one might be established. Nor can I comment on the content of the subject agenda for Dáil Committee meetings as decisions on agendas are matters for the Committees themselves.

My Department has worked to increase engagement with young people in both houses of the Oireachtas. This happens through the bi-annual Dail na nÓg or youth parliament, where representatives from the Comhairle na nÓg (local youth councils) come together to debate issues of importance to young people. Dáil na nÓg 2024 took place in Leinster House, where we hope that it will find a permanent home. Another occasion for youth engagement arose in 2022, when the Senate hosted the first sitting of Seanad na nÓg. Young people representing Comhairle na nÓg, An Gaisce and the Joint Award Initiative in Northern Ireland came together to share and debate their ideas for improving the lives of all young people, including those from minority and disadvantaged backgrounds.

My Department will continue to build these established relationships, bringing young people into the heart of national level decision making structures, and implementing their right to have their voices heard.