In governmental negotiations for the construction of a new Irish Government for the 33rd Dáil Éireann, it has been reported that the abolishment of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) is being considered among governmental negotiators for the Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Green Party. This is unacceptable.

Since its formation, the DCYA has supported child and youth concerns, organizations and projects alike nationally and within the European Union (EU). The DCYA ensures that children and the youth of today are heard within Dáil Éireann. It has led to massive shifts in Irish policy to date, from the formation of Tusla, to legal changes encompassing the rights of children and young people within Ireland such as the Child and Family Agency Act 2013. Regarding Section 8 of this act, it states, “Support and promote the development, welfare and protection of children.”, which will be difficult to achieve if the DCYA is abolished or limited in its function.

Stand with the future generation and sign this petition, to ensure the new potential government will listen and show that we will not let the DCYA be abolished. #TheDCYAMustStay #DontMuteTheYouth