Addressing the March meeting of Greystones Municipal District, students from Temple Carrig School, St David’s and Greystones Community College delivered what was described a very professional presentation, outlining the issues young people face in Greystones and across the Garden County, along with suggested solutions and setting out what they need from the district.
The report stems from the inaugural Trilateral Student Congress involving students from the three schools, where young people came together to identify the key issues they face locally and across the wider Wicklow area, along with proposed solutions.
Among the main concerns raised were issues around mental health supports, with students highlighting how school systems such as exit passes can feel intimidating for those experiencing anxiety, while also pointing to difficulties accessing trained therapists and long waiting lists for support.
Public transport also emerged as a major issue, with students raising concerns about unreliable bus services, poor connections for those living in rural areas, and the cost of fares. They also noted issues around antisocial behaviour on services and the impact delays can have on school and work.
Environmental concerns were also highlighted, with students pointing to a lack of bins and dog waste facilities contributing to litter in the area, alongside transport gaps leading to increased car use.
Regarding local facilities, students raised issues around the cost of accessing clubs and activities, as well as a lack of available study spaces and public amenities. Students also pointed to overcrowding at Temple Carrig School, where a previously promised extension has yet to be delivered.
The report also set out a number of proposed solutions, including calls for more frequent and reliable bus services, additional bins and public facilities, improved access to mental health supports in schools, and funding measures to ensure all young people can access local clubs and activities.
Speaking after the presentation, where students received the support of all councillors, Greystones MD cathaoirleach councillor Lourda Scott said she had invited representatives from the three student councils to present their findings following the congress earlier this year.
“I invited representatives from the three student councils to present their report from the inaugural Trilateral Student Congress that I had the pleasure of attending earlier in the year,” she said.
“I believe this is the first time we have had a formal presentation directly from the youth of the district. I look forward to bringing the issues they identified to other stakeholders such as Go Ahead and Irish Rail.
“This was a historic first, as while we often talk about young people in the chamber, we never hear directly from them.
“We need to keep this communication line open, as particularly with public consultation pieces, we don’t often hear the voice of young people represented, which isn’t fair.
“They are an important part of our community, and we want to hear what they think. I hope this is just the start.”