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460 young people, aged 12 -18, from 31 Comhairle na nÓg showcased their amazing work from the past year and presented how they are giving voice to protecting the rights of young people, and informing decision makers countrywide of what is important to young people in Ireland.

Dr. Katherine Zappone T.D., Minister for Children and Youth Affairs gave the opening address and praised the work of all involved.

Speaking at the event Minister Zappone said, "Young voices are key in deciding the future of our communities and our country. Through Comhairle na nÓg they are sending a message loud and clear – they want an Ireland which is equal, fair and just. We owe it to them to listen and to act.

Every time I meet the members of Comhairle I feel confident about our future. They are not burying their hands in the sand – they are ready, willing and able to confront the many challenges in an uncertain world.

These young people have worked hard to create a better, brighter future. I hope they are extremely proud of what they have achieved and, going forward, I am truly inspired by what I have seen and heard here today” the Minister concluded.

Tara Trevaskis-Hoskins, a young person in Comhairle na nÓg speaking at the event said “Community isn't just about location - it's about people. Community isn't something physical, it's an ideal, an attitude. We strive towards this way of living, a better way of living. I believe Comhairle echoes this. Comhairle represents community. Comhairle is community.”

Jordan McKenna another young person in Comhairle na nÓg also said “Being a member of the Dublin City Comhairle made me feel listened to as an individual and it feels good knowing that I have an impact on group decisions”.

Notes for editors

Comhairle na nÓg are child and youth councils in all local authority areas of the country and are the recognised national structure for children and young people (under the age of 18) to have a voice in the development of local services and policies. Comhairle na nÓg are funded and supported by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.