Trust is at the heart of every decision we make as parents, especially when it comes to entrusting the safety and well-being of our children to youth groups. In Ireland, and indeed around the world, parents like myself place immense trust in organizations such as scout groups, believing that they provide a safe and nurturing environment for our children. However, I was confronted with a deeply troubling situation that has shaken my faith in these institutions.

During a meeting of my son's Irish scout group, the children were instructed to sing “This Little Light of Mine” while holding phallic-shaped wooden props. To my horror, they were also taught a choreographed movement involving bending forward and wiggling their bums toward adults. This is a clear example of how inappropriate and potentially dangerous behavior can hide behind "closed-door" policies. You can learn more about this disturbing incident in my discussion here: [video](https://youtu.be/0Lh3HW5YS70?si=69F-dKV8qJhB9aWJ

This shocking incident has prompted me to push for critical reforms in youth group policies to ensure the safety of all children. I am calling on the Irish Parliament to debate and implement two vital changes:

1. **Mandatory CCTV for All "Closed-Door" Youth Activities:** By installing CCTV, secure recordings would be held for two years and accessed only by the police or the government Child and Family Agency. This measure would not only deter inappropriate behavior but also provide crucial evidence if such actions occur.

2. **Amendment to the Children First Act:** The government Child and Family Agency should be required to maintain a statutory list of "High-Risk Choreographed Songs & Movements." This amendment will ensure that parents are aware of potentially inappropriate activities and can take active steps to prevent exposure to such content.

Currently, police vetting only identifies individuals who have been previously caught or reported. However, the suggested reforms will create a proactive approach, safeguarding against grooming behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed.

I urge you to join me in calling for these changes in Ireland to protect our children from harmful practices and ensure youth activities remain safe and enjoyable. Together we can make a meaningful impact. Please sign this petition and help us bring about these essential reforms in Ireland. 

No child should be left unprotected. By supporting this campaign, we can bring about significant change in Ireland that may, in time, be adopted internationally.