18 Feb 2019, 10:24
The Joint Committee on Children and Youth Affairs will meet tomorrow (Tuesday) at 2 p.m. in Committee Room 3, Leinster House when the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr. Katherine Zappone, TD, comes before the Committee.
Minister Zappone will outline how Brexit may impact on the workings of the area relating to children and youth affairs, including Tusla, and how her officials are seeking to mitigate our potential exposure post the UK leaving the European Union.
At the meeting, the Minister will discuss several key issues that have been identified with the potential to impact – to a greater or lesser degree – on young people.
In advance of the meeting, the Chairman of the Joint Committee, Deputy Alan Farrell, said: “While young people have consistently raised a number of matters of concern since the UK confirmed its intention to leave the EU, these issues are complex and we look forward to hear the insight of Minister Zappone.”
Deputy Farrell added: “Brexit will impact profoundly the island of Ireland – and the current generation of young people will be those who will have to live with the consequence of the decisions made during these Brexit negotiations.”
“We must work to ensure our children and young people are protected to the best extent possible from any adverse impact Brexit may have for Ireland. This will be the utmost priority for all members of the Committee.”
The committee is adamant Brexit must not limit opportunity for those on the island of Ireland, and work, travel and study opportunities for all must be maintained, with North/South co-operation in areas such as health care, education, and child protection remaining.
Deputy Farrell concluded: “One area of concern is the area of recognition of qualifications, especially relevant to social work, while PEACE funding is another topic for discussion on Tuesday. The exit mechanism chosen by the UK Government could have an impact on the young people of this State, and with that in mind we look forward to the insight of Minister Zappone.”
Committee proceedings can be viewed live: https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/oireachtas-tv/cr3-live/
Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the move, through the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.