The second Seanad na nÓg event took place on Friday, November 14, bringing 60 delegates under the age of 18 from Comhairle na nÓg and youth organisations across the country into the Seanad chamber. The session was co-chaired by Cathaoirleach Senator Mark Daly, Leas-Chathaoirleach Senator Maria Byrne and Christian, a representative from Kerry Comhairle na nÓg.
Among the students taking part was Amina Ahmed Costello, a youth advocate who was previously selected to represent the Croom Foróige UBU Project at the Eurochild Conference in Malta in 2024 to discuss issues affecting young people not just in Ireland but throughout Europe.
Welcoming participants, Senator Daly said the Seanad had “always championed minority voices” and that the chamber was committed to empowering young people. “Today, we will absorb their wisdom, reflect on their insights and act on their recommendations,” he said.
Senator Byrne said the event “emphasises the importance of giving young people a real voice in shaping services and policies”, adding that she looked forward to reviewing the delegates’ proposals for inclusion in Ireland’s EU Presidency priorities.
Over the course of the day, delegates outlined recommendations across several key themes.
On peace and security, they highlighted the growing risks posed by deepfakes and misinformation, calling for a strong focus on safeguarding peace “in a digital world”.
On climate action, young people stressed the need for inclusive and cooperative approaches to tackling the climate crisis. They urged that policies reflect the experiences of communities most affected and ensure that climate action is accessible to all.
Delegates also raised several concerns relating to education and youth supports, advocating for increased training for guidance counsellors, enhanced mental health services in schools, and greater resources for special education needs. They warned that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis should be examined “through the lens of a young person or a person with a disability”.
Substance misuse emerged as another major concern. Delegates called for stronger investment in early-intervention mental health supports and community services to help prevent young people turning to drugs or alcohol.
The challenges facing children in care were also discussed, with calls for improvements in the system to ensure better outcomes and stronger protections for those in State care. Delegates further emphasised the importance of equality, urging political leaders to continue strengthening rights and supporting those who experience discrimination or inequality.
Co-chair Christian said the forum gave young people a rare opportunity to contribute directly to national policy discussions. “It allows us to enter the Seanad chamber and discuss the issues that matter to young people. It gives those under 18 a voice in our democracy, even though we can’t yet vote,” he said.
“It’s great that young people can give input on the EU Presidency Ireland will hold next year. We’ll inherit whatever EU this generation’s leaders leave to us.”
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley praised the delegates for their “thoughtful and ambitious contributions”, thanking Senator Daly for facilitating the event and Christian for co-chairing. “I look forward to hearing your deliberations and all that will come out of today,” she said.
The recommendations compiled during the day-long event will now be sent to Government for consideration as officials finalise Ireland’s priorities for the EU Presidency in June 2026.