As part of our Transition Year students’ studies, all students complete the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme. EPAS aims at increasing students’ awareness of European parliamentary democracy, the role of the European Parliament and European values. It also encourages them to actively participate in EU democratic processes.

Today, as part of the EPAS Programme, Junior Ambassadors welcomed MEP Billy Kelleher (Fianna Fáil Party) to ERSS to speak about his role as an MEP and the history of Ireland joining the EU and the importance of being an active European citizen. Mr Kelleher, who is a member of the EU Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs delved into topics such as Security, Migration, Agriculture and the importance of being aware of how the EU impacts the lives of young people. He took questions from our EPAS students who were keen to find out more information on displaced persons, environmental issues such as farming and how they can become active in EU matters.

We would like to thank Mr Kelleher for taking time out of his busy schedule to speak to our students and delivering a passionate and informative speech, that our TY students thoroughly enjoyed. #ERSS #TY @ep_ireland @billykellehereu

Irish Aid strives to reduce humanitarian need along with a plethora of goals such as strengthening governance and education. I know that Ireland’s youth must feel useless and incapable of making a difference in this large-scale war, however this couldn’t be further from the truth. The youth of today have an immeasurably powerful resource at their fingertips and aren’t completely unaware of its’ potential, social media. By simply pressing the post button, millions of people can be personally shown the reality of life for millions if not billions around the world.  

It’s easy for Irish youth to say, ‘this isn’t my problem’ or ‘why should I care?’ due to the protection and peace that is provided to the people of our nation. Regardless of what people say, it is our problem. It's our duty as citizens of nation that survived colonialism and torment to aid those who are experiencing the same. It is our duty to raise awareness about the crimes that contributing to the deterioration of our planet as we know it. 

In a similar fashion, the question of climate change and global warming has been pondered for decades, however we haven’t come very far.  

I believe it is imperative for young people to be interested in the Irish Aid’s objectives and how they are working towards a better and brighter future for all people in and beyond our nation. According to Irish Aid, ‘Ireland believes in supporting the most vulnerable people to meet the challenges posed by climate change. We focus on supporting people in the Least Developed Countries , Small Island Developing States and fragile states. Our work builds resilience and helps communities to develop despite the challenges.’ This groundbreaking organisation has highlighted Ireland’s selfless and kind-hearted demeanour to the world. It would be a shame for the young people of today to grow up and dismantle the amazing work our parents have diligently done.  

Our generation will be most affected by the implications of climate change that are yet to come. Unlike international conflict that may not have a direct impact on Ireland’s youth, this absolutely will. The youth of Ireland the power to sway the outcomes of global warming. Raising awareness using social media and creating a voice that cannot be ignored by the greed and hunger that has infected the world. Collaboration is the key to reversing global warming, it’s to us to act. 

Ireland is a tiny island lost in the Atlantic Ocean, a dot compared to the rest of the world. Do not let this fool you, Ireland has aided countless countries and will in the future. Today’s youth will carry these duties in the future, and how they perform is up to them.   Paul Keane TY

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are crucial for making the world a better place for everyone. These goals aim to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Achieving the SDGs by 2030 requires collective effort from individuals, governments, and organizations worldwide. Young people in Ireland play a vital role in contributing to the achievement of these goals through their actions and initiatives. 

The SDGs are important because they provide a roadmap for a more sustainable and equitable world. By focusing on 17 interconnected goals, the SDGs address a wide range of issues that impact people and the planet. For example, Goal 1 aims to end poverty in all its forms, while Goal 13 focuses on taking urgent action to combat climate change. Achieving these goals not only improves the quality  of life for people around the world but also ensures a more sustainable future for generations to come. 

Young people in Ireland can contribute to the achievement of the SDGs in various ways. One way is by raising awareness about the goals and their importance. By sharing information through social media, organizing events, and engaging in discussions, young people can help educate their peers and communities about the SDGs. 

Another way young people in Ireland can contribute is by taking action in their local communities. Whether it's volunteering at a local charity, participating in clean-up campaigns, or supporting sustainable businesses, every effort counts towards achieving the SDGs. By getting involved in community projects, young people can make a tangible impact and inspire others to do the same. 

Furthermore, young people in Ireland can advocate for policy changes that align with the SDGs. By engaging with policymakers, participating in protests, and voting for candidates who support sustainable development, young people can influence decision-making processes and promote policies that advance the goals of the SDGs. 

In addition, young people in Ireland can contribute to the SDGs by adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives. This can include reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting ethical brands, and making environmentally conscious choices. By making small changes in their lifestyle, young people can contribute to a more sustainable future for all. 

In conclusion, the UN Sustainable Development Goals are important for creating a more sustainable and equitable world. Young people in Ireland have a crucial role to play in contributing to the achievement of these goals. By raising awareness, taking action in their communities, advocating for policy changes, and adopting sustainable practices, young people can make a positive impact and help build a better future for all.  DJ Knox