This article is from page 17 of the 2012-05-08 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 17 JPG
CLARE Youth Service joined with other local youth services around the country last week to impress upon decision-makers the importance of local youth work to the country and its future.
The Oireachtas briefing, organised by Youth Work Ireland, highlighted concerns about youth unemployment, community employment and funding cuts, which are threatening youth projects around the country.
As part of the briefing, Clare Youth Service provided information on local projects and highlighted where cuts are impacting.
Margaret Slattery, CEO of Clare Youth Service, said, “We currently face many challenges in delivering essential services but it was important to recognise our Oireachtas rep- resentatives as partners in establishing the importance of youth work in both the legislative and budgetary processes.
“The meeting was an important opportunity to frankly highlight the situation on the ground.”
Bryan McMahon, an adult leader and part of the CYS Younger Voices group, highlighted the role of volunteers in providing value-for-money in the youth service.
As a former member of Skyview youth club in Shannon, his own story impressed the deputies and senators.
He said, “We saw this as an important opportunity to show what communities and young people can do in partnership with agencies and the State to provide quality services in difficult economic times”
Patrick Burke, CEO of Youth Work Ireland, complimented the role played by Clare Youth Service and others in the briefing.
Clare Youth Service is currently in the midst of their drive to recruit patrons and friends to help meet the shortfall caused by the current round of cuts.
The campaign was been a resounding success so far, with 120 patrons recruited from a target of 150. It is hoped to reach the target by the end of May.
Individuals and companies can become patrons for a donation of € 50 or become a friend for € 20. Friends will receive a car sticker, while patrons will receive a certificate for their business premises or home in addition to the car sticker.
To enrol as a friend or patron of Clare Youth Service, contact 065 6845350. Alternatively, anyone interested can enrol online at www. clareyouthservice.org