Limerick Youth Service is disappointed with the Government’s decision not to hold a Referendum on reducing the voting age to 16.
It was recommended to do so by the Constitutional Convention in 2013 and LYS feel it is a clear rejection of a proposal that speaks directly to young people.
“We are extremely disappointed with this decision and feel it undermines the valuable work of the Constitutional Convention,” said Éamon O’Briain (19), Youth Work Ireland board member.
“Speaking to over 500 young people at Comhairle na nÓg’s National Showcase last November, An Taosieach Enda Kenny and Children’s Minister, Dr James Reilly, spoke about listening to and valuing the opinions of young people.
“This decision contradicts their statements and could further alienate young people from political and public life,” stated Mr O’Briain, a volunteer with Limerick Youth Service and Comhairle na nÓg. He added: “Young people are very passionate, knowledgeable and there’s a lot more to the younger generation than some people give them credit for.”
Limerick Youth Service believes lowering the voting age would allow young people to become more involved in issues of importance to them and increase youth engagement in politics and the democratic process.
Last year’s Scottish Referendum, where 16 and 17 year olds were eligible to vote, illustrated the benefits of lowering the voting age, one example being the increased interaction between youths and politicians.
Despite the Referendum decision Limerick Youth Service will continue to support reducing the voting age and challenges the Government to allow 16 an 17 year olds to vote in the local & European elections in 2019.
According to LYS: “The franchise for the local and European elections is not a constitutional issue therefore the Government could make changes in the Oireachtas to allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote in these elections. This would allow the public and Government a chance to see the benefits of engaging with young voices in the democratic system.”
A member of Youth Work Ireland, Limerick Youth Service remains committed to supporting and encouraging young people to be active participants in shaping their futures.
