Ambitious for Youth: Investing in Ireland’s Future Now
As Ireland prepares to take on the Presidency of the European Union in 2026, Youth Work Ireland is calling on the Government to show real ambition for young people through meaningful investment in youth work.
Why Now?
Ireland has the youngest population in Europe — and it’s growing. Yet young people continue to face serious challenges: a cost-of-living crisis, unaffordable housing, underfunded services, and a youth work sector stretched beyond its limits. The Government has the resources to make a difference, and the time to act is now.
What We’re Calling For
1. Supporting Youth Services
Frontline youth workers are leaving the sector for better-paid public service jobs. We urgently need:
Pay equality and funding to retain skilled staff
An increase of €10.5 million to protect existing services
2. Keep Pace with Rising Costs
Services are still operating on budgets from 2008. Rising energy, insurance, and programme costs are overwhelming providers.
We propose an €8.5 million adjustment to support core youth work funding streams
3. Rebuild Universal Youth Work
Youth clubs, volunteers, and information services are key to inclusive community engagement.
€1.5 million for club development, tech access, and national campaigns
€1 million to strengthen youth information services, including online chat and support
4. Invest in Youth Infrastructure
Ireland lacks dedicated, youth-friendly spaces, especially in rural areas.
A pilot capital fund of €15 million per year for 3 years is needed for fit-outs, refurbishments, and new builds
5. Address Urgent Youth Issues
Young people’s needs around mental health, homelessness, education, and the cost of living must be met with dedicated action:
€3 million for youth mental health and counselling
€10 million to tackle youth homelessness
€14.5 million for educational supports and early school leavers
€67 million to reverse discriminatory youth welfare rates
Let’s Build a Fairer Future
With an overall ask of €131 million, this submission is about more than numbers. It’s about showing young people they matter — and that Ireland is ready to invest in their future.