13 Noll 2012, 16:41
The Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement today heard from Youth Work Ireland and Youth Action Northern Ireland who highlighted the disconnect among young people with the political process.
13 December 2012
The two organisations work to support young people on both sides of the border and outlined initiatives in education and training, mental and physical health, political engagement and reconciliation and peacebuilding.
Committee Chairman Joe McHugh TD says: “Committee Members heard a thorough overview of the valuable and tireless work of Youth Work Ireland and Youth Action Northern Ireland, much of which has a cross border dimension. We heard that both organisations have joined forces in carrying out an exchange based project between young people in Northern Ireland and the Southwest Balkans.
Committee Members were particularly struck by the detachment of young people from the political process. In Northern Ireland for instance, 56 percent of young people between 17 and 25 are not even registered to vote. Young people have a defining role to play in tackling sectarianism and securing a peaceful future. To contribute fully, they need to be engaged in the political process and our Committee fully support both organisations in fostering greater awareness and interest in politics among young people.
The Committee also heard from Michael D’Arcy , author of the scoping study Delivering a Prosperity Process: Opportunities in North/South Public Service Provision formed the basis for the discussions.
Deputy McHugh continues: “Reflecting the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement, the Committee is exploring practical ways towards reconciliation in its discussions. We thank Michael D’Arcy for a detailed overview of the opportunities for public services provision on a North-South basis. Mr D’Arcy cited Senator George Mitchell who, in addressing us earlier in the year, pointed out that all peace processes require endless perseverance. We heard Mr D’Arcy suggest ten worthwhile opportunities for Ireland and Northern Ireland to combine strengths and work together, in the areas such as energy, tourism, health and job creation.”
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Ends
For further information please contact:
Paul Hand,
Houses of the Oireachtas,
Communications Unit,
Leinster House,
Dublin 2
P: +3531 618 4484
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paul.hand@oireachtas.ie
Members of the Committee:
Deputies Seán Conlan, Seán Crowe, Clare Daly, Regina Doherty, Peter Fitzpatrick, Frank Feighan, Martin Ferris, Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, Peter Fitzpatrick, Michael P. Kitt, Joe McHugh, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Joe O’Reilly, Brendan Smith and Joanna Tuffy.
Senators Jim D’Arcy, Maurice Cummins, Martin McAleese, Mary Moran, Mary White.
Chairman: Joe McHugh, TD Vice-Chairman: Joe O'Reilly, TD