Comhairle na nÓg National Showcase 2025

The morning started with a poster exhibition where each Comhairle shared projects they had worked on over the past year. It was a great chance to see the range of topics being tackled and the different ways young people are engaging with local and national authorities.

Wicklow Comhairle na nÓg, which I co-ordinate, presented a project focused on drug use among young people in the county. They carried out a survey and produced a report highlighting how easily accessible drugs are and the concerns this raises. Our stand drew interest from a number of visitors, including my Social Democrats colleagues Cllr Shane Hickey O’Mara and Cllr Jesslyn Henry, as well as Sinn Féin Senator Nicole Ryan. Senator Ryan was particularly engaged and requested a copy of the report, as she has a strong interest in drug awareness work.

After the exhibition, we were treated to a performance by Bray Gospel Choir, and one young person shared their experience of being part of Comhairle—what they’ve learned and how it’s impacted them personally.

In the afternoon, two panel discussions took place with civil servants from several departments including Children, Education, Health, Further Education, and Transport. The panels were chaired by a member of Wicklow Comhairle and gave young people the opportunity to ask direct questions to those in policy roles—and vice versa. The conversations were thoughtful, honest, and showed a real willingness to listen on both sides.

The day ended with a closing ceremony hosted by Minister for Disability Norma Foley and Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Two young people from each Comhairle were invited on stage to accept a framed certificate, recognising the work their group had done throughout the year.

The Showcase was a great reminder of what young people can achieve when given the space to speak up and be heard.