Ministers Ryan and O'Gorman publish the Report of the National Youth Assembly on Climate

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan and Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Roderic O’Gorman have published the report of the 2024 National Youth Assembly on Climate. This report is an integral part of the government’s National Dialogue on Climate Action and annual Climate Action Plan.

The third annual National Youth Assembly on Climate took place on 11 April. In total, 67 youth delegates aged 12-24 from across Ireland attended, representing youth organisations, Comhairle na nÓg and other interested organisations. Delegates produced nine key recommendations which are highlighted in this report.

The key recommendations from the Youth Assembly relate to the areas of education, engagement, and sustainable transport. Among the many recommendations from the young people were that:

Climate change and sustainability should be actively taught in CSPE classes
In order to keep people engaged in climate there should be initiatives, careers and a rewards system in place
The government should prioritise funding for public transport and improve rail infrastructure particularly
There should be a universal travel card like the Leap Card usable across the whole island of Ireland
There should be less taxation on eco-friendly items or more on non-eco-friendly items

All of the recommendations for action are included in the report.

The report of the National Youth Assembly on Climate provides a detailed record of the assembly discussions, captures the views of young people from across Ireland and reflects the concerns of young people in relation to climate issues.

Minister Ryan welcomed the publication of the report:

"Climate change is the biggest challenge facing us all, and none more so than young people who are living already with the impact of the actions of former generations. We have to listen and we have to take heed of their very real concerns about our planet and their futures. But we must listen to them actively, involve young people in our policy development act on what they are telling us. The National Youth Assembly on Climate gives young people a very tangible and practical way to guide national policy and I thank everyone involved for their time and efforts in making these recommendations which will inform our national climate policy and help shape a better Ireland."

Minister O'Gorman also welcomed the publication and the recommendations of the assembly, saying:

"I would like to thank the delegates for their continued efforts in progressing these important issues and providing a much needed prospective to the climate conversation. The recommendations contained within this report will be considered for inclusion in the 2025 Climate Action Plan."

The report can be accessed at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications website.

ENDS

Ministers Ryan and O'Gorman publish the Report of the National Youth Assembly on Climate

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