In 2007 the Department of Education tasked YCNI to chair a cross-sectoral working group to advise the Department on the development of a Network for Youth. The role of the Network will be to 'strengthen the direct voice of young people in all relevant aspects of government provision'.

The working group co-ordinated a pre-consultation in 2007, followed by a full consultation in 2008. Based on the consultation responses, the working group provided advice to the Department in 2009.

The Department has now tasked the Youth Council to develop advice on the design of the Network, within the parameters set by the Department. These parameters are outlined in the Terms Of Reference which were issued by the Department, and approved by the Education and Skills Authority Implementation Team.

The Youth Council will be holding a series of meetings in early 2010 to explore the most effective design options for the Network, within the terms of reference (above). It will also explore how young people can continue to have an active role in the design process.

If you have any comments or queries on the proposed Network or would like to meet with the Youth Council to discuss the plans, please contact charvey@ycni.org or Tel 02890.643882 or Textphone 02890.654801.