Wexford Comhairle na nÓg is the only recognised structure which enables young people to have an input on decisions which effect their lives
Recently, the Annual Youth Conference of Wexford Comhairle na nÓg was held in the Council Chamber of County Hall with over 100 young people from secondary schools and youth organisations across county Wexford attending the event, with an emphasis on giving a platform to seldom heard voices.
The annual youth conference is a chance for young people’s voices to be heard. A wide range of issues which young people feel are impacting on their lives were identified and ways in which Comhairle na nOg can address these issues were discussed.
Attended by Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan and Cllr. Patricia Byrne the event gave the young people the opportunity to understand the weight and value of their opinions as members of Comhairle na nÓg.
“We encourage young people’s views and take them on board when developing policies for the betterment of the lives of all the citizens of County Wexford,” said Cllr Sullivan.
Students making progress on a the chart during the annual Wexford Comhairle na nÓg Youth Conference in the Council Chambers at Wexford County Council on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell
New members were elected to join the current members and together these representatives will form the Wexford Comhairle na nÓg and represent young people in county Wexford for 2025 – 2026.
This group will examine the issues identified at the Youth Conference and examine what measures could be put in place to a make a positive difference and how best to ensure that decision makers create opportunities for young people to have their say and contribute to determining what type of society they want to live in.
Wexford Comhairle na nOg are currently working on the issue of youth health and are making efforts to achieve positive change in a complex area.
“After lots of discussions they narrowed their focus down to young people’s experience of interacting with healthcare professionals” said Avril O’Sullivan, the co-ordinator of Comhairle.
“Many of the young people were reporting some quite negative experiences. Doctors and health professionals using languages that is not youth friendly, having the parent spoken to rather than the young person themselves, even when they are over 16.
“Lots of time in that health space, people can leave with the perception that everything is so broken, none of us can fix it. But they have decided to take a more positive approach.”
Discussing session during the annual Wexford Comhairle na nÓg Youth Conference in the Council Chambers at Wexford County Council on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell
Through their participation in Comhairle the young people form new friendships, enhance their teamwork, communication, public speaking and research skills, and of course have fun.
“They are really committed to this” says Avril. “They give up their Friday nights for this… It’s not for everyone, but for some young people it is a space that the really enjoy. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see some of them in the Dáil.”
Director of Services for Wexford County Council, Carolyne Godkin noted that Comhairle na nÓg is the recognised structure for participation by children and young people in local decision making across all 31 local authorities of the country.
At the heart of facilitating this youth conference was Ferns Diocesan Youth Service. It’s CEO Dr Kieran Donohoe believes that “it is imperative that we all hear what young people are saying, but that we listen and act on what young people need.”