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The journey began back in 2019, when members of Comhairle na nÓg gathered at Dáil na nÓg and cast their votes for more sustainable transport solutions. The National Executive, representing each of the 31 Comhairlí, poured their hearts and souls into this cause. With unwavering support from their Comhairle na nÓg Coordinators, the National Participation Office, and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), and Department of Transport, they were ready to make a change.
They meticulously developed their proposal, aiming to reduce transport costs for young people, and presented it to key ministers in July 2021. The acceptance came in October 2021, announced by Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath, during the 2022 budget announcement. This milestone marked a significant moment, showcasing the Government’s commitment to embracing youth voices in public policy.
The Comhairle community was buzzing, and the news spread fast! Molly Beckett from Roscommon, felt a surge of pride and could hardly wait to share the news with her friends. ‘We can now say to our friends that their transport costs have been halved and we had a part to play in it…’ ‘In the past, there was a belief that young people should be seen and not heard. We hope this will empower young people all over the country and make them believe that they can achieve things, if they work for it’
In Carlow, 18-year-old Racheal Diyaolu expressed the feeling of liberation. She could already envision the newfound freedom the Youth Travel Card would bring. ‘Young people just want to be able to get to school or college, or go to their job and have a good life. My friend had been complaining about the cost of public transport and how expensive it was for them to travel anywhere. Now I can go back to them and say their costs are cut in half! It will make such a huge difference in our lives; it will give us so much more independence and freedom.’
Up in Sligo, Siofra McElduff, 15, was deeply grateful for the recognition of their hard work over the last 2 years. She remembered the countless hours spent refining their proposal. ‘We are so grateful to have our hard work recognised. Thanks to Minister Roderic O’Gorman for really advocating for us, his support meant so much.’
Jack Cassidy, 17, from Louth, was filled with a profound sense of purpose. ‘It’s obvious that the Government does care and is actually looking out for young people. With all the focus on doom and gloom at the minute, this is a message that the Government is trying to do their best for young people and their future. This is a huge step forward in the right direction for climate action!’
There was huge ministerial praise for the work of the National Executive from Minister Roderic O’Gorman and Minister Eamon Ryan praising their dedication, acknowledging their relentless passion and effort, while promoting sustainability.
The amazing work of the National Executive on getting this Travel Card over the line, not only tackled the financial barriers young people face with public transport but also sets a precedent for their involvement in decision-making processes. By enhancing access to public and community spaces, the Youth Travel Card stands as a significant step forward, embedding youth perspectives into national policies and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
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15 Feb 2025 
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