Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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222. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the breakdown of the funding allocated to youth work in Budget 2026; the levels of funding that will be directed towards Balgaddy, Lucan, County Dublin for youth work; the way in which youth work organisations can apply for funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56130/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I am pleased to announce that, arising from Budget 2026, an additional €8 million in current and capital funding has been allocated to support the sustainability and development of youth services. This investment strengthens the foundation for inclusive, high-quality provision — ensuring continuity, expanding reach, and enabling services to respond to the evolving needs of Ireland’s diverse youth population, including young people in Lucan, such as those engaged through Crosscare’s Lucan Youth Service which covers the area of Balgaddy.

My department remains committed to supporting youth work at both national and local levels. The increased funding will enable youth services to continue delivering tailored supports and safe, welcoming spaces for young people across the country.

The Budget documentation published sets out funding for key measures and actions agreed for the coming year. As the Deputy may be aware, in line with standard practice, the final allocation of funding for my Department for 2026 will be set out in the 2026 Revised Estimates Volume (REV), which is due to be published later this year. Further details on the 2026 allocations for my Department will be available after the 2026 REV process is complete.