97. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on Oíche na hÓige; outline how she intends to build on the event through capital investment in youth facilities across the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [70748/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Will the Minister of State provide an update on Oíche na hÓige and outline how he intends to build on the event through capital investment in youth facilities across the State?

Sentiment score: 0.00

Oíche na hÓige was a success. In my constituency of Meath East, I attended open nights held by Ratoath Foróige and 5th Meath Kells Scouts. They do such good and important work in the community. In both of those projects, like so many, it is about youth leadership, with young people leading. Is it planned that Oíche na hÓige will be an annual event? Has that decision been made or is it under consideration? It is something I would support. Are there plans to increase places for young people in youth work services? It is one thing to raise awareness and show people the good work being done but there are capacity issues in practically all these services because of a lack of investment over years.

Sentiment score: 0.22

It needs to be matched with increased funding. I said to the Minister of State at committee that youth services are the poor relation within the Department and in government. The incredible work done in communities and the benefit for young people and the wider community are immeasurable. Maybe that is part of the difficulty. Investment is returned in spades. Please continue to invest in young people and youth services and increase that investment. I want to ask about the implementation plan for the national strategy for youth work and related services 2024 to 2028. We are coming into 2026 and that plan has not been prepared. It is an indication of delay and a lack of prioritisation. Please focus on it, deliver on it and, importantly, engage with the stakeholders doing such great work in our communities.

Sentiment score: 0.07

I fully support Deputy Crowe on this. A solution has to be found. The Department has a role to play here, as have the school, the patron body and the religious authorities, but a solution must be found.

Sentiment score: 0.45