Young People Take Centre Stage at Ireland-UK Leaders' Summit in Cork

A group of ten young people aged 16 to 24 took their recommendations directly to the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister today, as the Ireland-UK Youth Advisory Group presented the outcomes of the inaugural Ireland-UK Youth Forum at the Leaders' Summit in Cork.

The Youth Advisory Group, whose members were nominated by youth organisations across Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, played a central role in planning the Forum, which took place in Dublin on 21 January. Today's presentation marked the culmination of that work, bringing the voices of young people to the highest levels of political decision-making.

The Forum's recommendations centred on four key areas: the cost of living, mental health and access to healthcare, education, and culture, diversity and equality. Both Taoiseach Micheál Martin and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the group's insights and acknowledged the importance of youth engagement in Ireland-UK cooperation.

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley said:

"I had the opportunity to meet and engage with this very impressive group of young people and I welcome the report they have now produced for Taoiseach Micheál Martin and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Young people deserve not just to be heard, but to be listened to at the highest levels of decision-making. The Ireland-UK Youth Advisory Group has shown real leadership, commitment and vision. Their recommendations reflect the priorities of a new generation determined to build a more inclusive, sustainable and connected future across these islands."

UK Minister for Sport, Tourism, Civil Society and Youth Stephanie Peacock MP said:

"I was delighted to see members of the UK-Ireland Youth Forum meet with the Prime Minister and Taoiseach Micheál Martin today to discuss the issues that matter most to young people, from mental health and education to the cost of living. Their voices are vital in shaping the policies that affect their lives, and their reflections on community and collaboration highlight the strength of the ties between our nations. I look forward to working with my counterpart in Ireland to ensure their recommendations translate into meaningful action."

The Ireland-UK Youth Forum represents a significant step forward in cross-border youth participation, providing a structured platform for young people across these islands to reach consensus on shared challenges and shape future cooperation between the two countries.