Minister Naughton meets EU Youth Delegates ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency

Minister for Education and Youth Minister Hildegarde Naughton today met with Ireland’s EU youth delegates to discuss the role of young people in shaping youth policy at European level, as well as Ireland’s preparations for its upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union. 

The youth delegates play a vital role in representing the voices of young people from across Ireland at EU-level events and within the EU Youth Dialogue (EUYD). Through consultation events delivered under the Young Voices programme, which is managed by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), the delegates gather the views, experiences and priorities of young people on social, economic, and political issues, ensuring that these perspectives are reflected in EU policy discussions. 

Speaking following the meeting, Minister Naughton said: “Young people must have a real and meaningful voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives. Our youth delegates play an essential role in amplifying the views of young people from Ireland and ensuring those views are heard at the heart of European decision-making. I was very pleased to hear directly from them today as we look ahead to Ireland’s EU Presidency.” 

Discussions also focused on preparations for the EU Youth Conference, the flagship event of the EUYD cycle, which Ireland will host later this year. The Conference will take place from 27 to 30 September 2026 and is expected to bring together up to 300 participants from across EU Member States, candidate countries and other partner countries. 

The conference represents a significant opportunity for young people to engage directly with policymakers and contribute to shaping EU youth policy during Ireland’s Presidency. It is being organised in close cooperation with NYCI and other key stakeholders. 

Minister Naughton added: “Hosting the EU Youth Conference is a major milestone for Ireland’s Presidency and a powerful demonstration of our commitment to youth participation. I look forward to engaging with young people from across Europe and to ensuring their voices are central to discussions about our shared future.” 

The meeting concluded with a discussion on how Ireland’s EU Presidency can further strengthen youth participation, inclusion and engagement across Europe, reflecting Ireland’s ongoing commitment to empowering young people as active citizens.