Members of Westmeath Comhairle na nÓg at Croke Park for National Showcase

More than 500 young people involved in Comhairle na nÓg, including members from Westmeath, gathered at Croke Park stadium on Tuesday April 4 to showcase and celebrate their wide range of achievements and be inspired by a host of speakers and entertainers.

The National Showcase is a biannual event that highlights the work of the members of Comhairle na nÓg and how young people have had have their voices heard on policies, services and issues that affect their lives.

The event gave the 31 Comhairle na nÓg groups the opportunity to exhibit their work and engage directly with local and national decision makers to inform them about the topics and issues that are important to them.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said; “The National Showcase is about recognising the valuable work of Comhairle na nÓg and its contribution to the lives of so many young people around the country. It gives me great hope to witness the enthusiasm and commitment of the young people involved, who should have their voices heard on a wide range of policies and issues.

“The government recognise the valuable work of Comhairle na nÓg and we are committed to ensuring that young people continue to be engaged in decision-making that affects them.”

Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, added: “Comhairle na nÓg plays a huge role in ensuring the voices of young people are heard around the country and its members have made great strides over the years, both at a local and national level. Today’s gathering is especially important in order to celebrate the achievements of Comhairle na nÓg and the tremendous impact of the work being done.”

Broadcaster Doireann Garrihy led proceedings during the day along with hosting a panel of young people to discuss how they have had the opportunity to engage with decision makers and influence decision making through Comhairle na nÓg.

The Dublin Gospel Choir provided the entertainment with special renditions of some well known songs.

Christopher Lynn, previous Westmeath Comhairle na nÓg member, said: “Comhairle na nÓg is so important for young people as it offers us a chance to make a meaningful impact on the areas we live in. You get the chance to meet decision makers from local councillors to government ministers, and I can’t think of any other organisation that allows that amount of involvement.

“Comhairle helped me to become so much more confident in myself and gave me the chance to take part in so many things I would never have dreamed of.”

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Minister Roderic O’Gorman and government officials addressed the large gathering of young people as well as reaffirming their commitment to ensuring they are listening to the important issues discussed and raised by them.