Press release
Comhairle na nÓg National Showcase 2020
From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Published on
Last updated on
An Taoiseach, Minister Roderic O’Gorman, Chris Hadfield, Niall Horan, Denise Chaila and Picture This were amongst the contributors at the Comhairle na nÓg National Showcase 2020. In what has been a year like no other, Comhairle na nÓg members experienced a Showcase like no other.
The National Showcase, which took place as a live virtual event today 5th December, is a biannual event that celebrates the work of the members of Comhairle na nÓg. While the event could not take place in a single space this year, over 600 young people from all around the country came together at a virtual event to celebrate their achievements and be inspired by a host of speakers and entertainers.
This special interactive event, which was hosted by Doireann Garrihy, showcased the tremendous work of each of the 31 Comhairle na nÓg groups through a specially commissioned video.
Despite all obstacles each Comhairle ensured that their projects continued throughout COVID-19. More so, the members responded innovatively to COVID-19, reinforcing public health messages, participating in surveys and helping others in their community to feel less isolated. The 31 Comhairle na nÓg groups used their voice to continue to protect the rights of young people and inform decision makers countrywide of what is important to young people in Ireland.
Speaking to young people at the event Mr. Roderic O’Gorman T.D., Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth said:
“Thank you for your enthusiasm, your energy and your commitment. I am committed to working with you to make sure your voices are heard and understood, creating meaningful change and leaving a lasting impact.”
This year the Showcase featured some very special contributors. Astronaut Chris Hadfield dedicated an inspirational address to the young people. Niall Horan surprised the young people with a note of congratulations. Picture This performed and answered questions from the young people. Denise Chaila wowed the audience with a moving piece created just for the Showcase.
Three former members of Comhairle na nÓg, Chloe, Jamie and Salomé spoke passionately about the impact it had on their lives. Student support worker Jamie noted:
“For me Comhairle was the place where you could go to be listened to and that was the most important thing for me was for someone to listen to me. Comhairle kinda influenced everything I’ve done in my life, cause it gave me the confidence to put myself out there. So I ran with it and Comhairle helped shape the person I am I suppose. I know the sense of excitement when you are sitting down with an adult and they are saying “I want to listen to your ideas, I want you to tell me what you want”.
The Taoiseach, Minister O’Gorman and government officials addressed the young people and thanked them for their incredible work and dedication, as well as reaffirming their commitment to ensuring they are listening to young people.
The biggest stars of the day were the Comhairle na nÓg members themselves whose brilliant work, ideas and commentary shone throughout the Showcase.
ENDS
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, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.