The Youth Conference and AGM of Tipperary Comhairle na nÓg took place on 7th November 2024 at TUS Thurles. The event was attended by 117 young people from across Tipperary.

The outgoing Chairpersons, Patrick Corbett (Thurles) and Niamh Brennan (Clonmel), welcomed the delegates and outlined the work of Tipperary Comhairle na nÓg, explaining the purpose of the day. Olivia D’Arcy (Cahir), Tipperary’s National Executive representative, also addressed the attendees, highlighting her role as a link between Tipperary and the national Comhairle na nÓg work.

Delegates took part in an informative workshop delivered by Timmy Hamersley from the Ombudsman for Children’s Office. The session focused on the Rights of the Child and the importance of this 20th year of the Ombudsman’s Office in Ireland. Timmy also highlighted how the work Comhairle na nÓg is directly linked to Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which ensures that children and young people have the right to express their views freely and that their opinions are given due weight in matters affecting them.

Cllr. Declan Burgess then shared his journey, from being a member of Comhairle na nÓg as a teenager to now serving as Chair of Tipperary County Council. He spoke about the importance Tipperary County Council places on the input of Comhairle na nÓg into local policies and plans.

Next, the group heard from Aisling Maloney, a youth activist and member of several national organisations including NYCI and Youth Work Ireland. Aisling shared how her journey began with her involvement in Tipperary Comhairle na nÓg during her teens.

During the lunch break, Helena from the Equality and Justice Project with Youth Work Tipperary led a creative activity, while delegates had the opportunity to share their views and ideas on issues affecting young people across the county.

After lunch, elections were held for the 14 vacant seats on Tipperary’s Comhairle na nÓg, generating plenty of excitement as 42 young people bravely put themselves forward as candidates. Delegates also learned about the new Planet Youth project in Tipperary, which will track the health needs of young people in the county. Outgoing Comhairle members were presented with certificates by Angela Sheehan of Tipperary County Council, who thanked them for their contributions.

The final part of the day saw the newly elected Chairpersons, Ben Kennedy (Borrisokane) and Niamh O’Brien (Tipperary Town), announce the election results and welcome the new members. They also thanked everyone for attending and participating so enthusiastically. Since the AGM, Tipperary’s new Comhairle na nÓg has held a team-building day and begun making plans for the year ahead – so watch this space!