1436. Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to consider the establishment of a Cabinet sub-committee on young people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34735/24]

The Cabinet Committee on Children and Education and Disability oversees Programme for Government commitments relating to Children, Education and Disability, and has ultimate oversight of Young Ireland: the National Policy Framework for Children and Young People 2023-2028.

Young Ireland includes commitments relevant to both children and young people up to the age of 24, including youth services as key supports in assisting young people to thrive. Young Ireland’s governance structures are currently being established and will provide a forum for stakeholder engagement and drive implementation of these policy commitments, and ensure accountability in the development of policies impacting children and young people.

The membership of this Cabinet Committee comprises the:

· Taoiseach;

· Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and for Defence;

· Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications and for Transport;

· Minister for Health;

· Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth;

· Minister for Education;

· Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform;

· Minister for Finance;

· Minister for Social Protection and for Rural and Community Development;

· Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage; and,

· Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

The Minister of State with special responsibility for Special Education and Inclusion, and the Minister of State for Disability are invited to participate in all meetings of the Committee. Other Ministers or Ministers of State are invited to participate as required.