Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
482. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the percentage of the current youth services grant scheme that is being spent on Irish language youth work; her plans to increase this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63473/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Education and Youth recognises the importance of supporting the Irish language within the youth work sector and is committed to exploring opportunities to strengthen this area. Currently, the Youth Affairs Unit supports Irish language youth work through its core funding schemes and targeted initiatives.
The Youth Services Grant Scheme (YSGS) is the principal funding stream for universal youth work, supporting 35 national and regional organisations to deliver services, build sectoral capacity, and uphold standards. It currently includes two Irish language youth organisations — Feachtas and Ógras — which promote Irish language and culture through youth work.
In 2025, Feachtas received €121,436 and Ógras €253,847 funding under the Youth Services Grant Scheme which represents 2.45% of the combined funding support of €15,291,086 made available to these 35 organisations.
An additional €8 million in current and capital funding has been allocated to support the sustainability and development of youth services. This increased funding will allow youth services and providers to maintain and expand existing supports, enhance service delivery, and respond to emerging needs in local communities. It will also enable targeted investment in essential upgrades to youth facilities, equipment, and digital infrastructure — ensuring that services remain safe, accessible, and fit for purpose in a modern youth work environment.
The Budget documentation published sets out funding for key measures and actions agreed for the coming year. As the Deputy may be aware, in line with standard practice, the final allocation of funding for the Department for 2026 will be set out in the 2026 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) which is due to be published later this year. Further details on the 2026 allocations for the Department will be available after the 2026 REV process is complete.
