Students in Laois invited along to ‘sports taster day’

MEMBERS from Laois Comhairle na nÓg along with Laois Sports Partnership are organising a sports taster day for second year students in which is to be held on Saturday 17 May at Portlaoise Leisure Centre.

The event is being held following members from Laois Comhairle na nÓg who attended the Comhairle na nÓg National Showcase.

The national event which is held every two years, is a key moment in Ireland’s youth participation calendar, bringing together young people from all 31 Comhairle na nÓg groups across the country to highlight their work and impact over the past two years.

The theme for this year’s showcase was ‘Influencing Decision Makers’, reflecting the critical role young people play in shaping policies, services, and issues that affect their lives.

The event featured an exhibition where each Comhairle (council) presented their work, focusing on how they have engaged with and influenced decision-makers at both local and national levels. It also featured contributions from young people, a keynote address, and interactive sessions where decision-makers and young people came together to exchange ideas.

The guest speaker was the Minister for Children, Disability, and Equality, Norma Foley with a closing address from An Taoiseach Micheal Martin.

Comhairle na nÓg is this year working on the topic of mental health for young people with a particular focus on promoting positive mental health through physical and mental sports. In addition to the sports taster day in Portlaoise members from Laois Comhairle na nÓg will also be organising mental sports in some of the libraries around the county.

Co-Ordinator of Laois Comhairle na nÓg Rosemary Kunene said: “Attending events such as the national showcase is a truly a memorable experience for the young people in Laois. Such events offer a valuable opportunity for young changemakers to engage with policy makers and have their voices heard.” 

More details can be found on Laois Comhairle na nÓg’s social media pages.

Comhairle na nÓg is recognised as the official structures by the Irish Government for young people to participate in the development of policies and services.