Laois student politicians vote for inclusive school sex education
Five Laois students represented their county at the annual Dáil na nÓg recently.
The students from five different secondary schools took part in debates on issues most important to young Irish people.
They also played a part in voting the year's topic for the national executive, choosing "a more inclusive relationships and sexuality education" as the most pressing issue.
Anna McWey was also a youth facilitator and she told the Leinster Express about the day.
"I enjoyed being able to lead the workshops. It was very empowering to hear the views shared by other members of Comhairle na nÓgs across the country.
"This event is crucial to improving the government's policies for us and future generations because it allows us to have a say. It was great to be able to meet everyone in person as the event was originally scheduled for last December which meant it would have had to be a virtual gathering.
"Myself and my fellow Laois Comhairle na nÓg members were delighted with how the day went. We got to vote on the topic for the incoming national executive which is a more inclusive relationships and sexuality education. We also got to listen to an esteemed panel answer our questions and share their experiences with equality.
"Facilitating and being a delegate at Dáil na nÓg was definitely one of the most amazing opportunities I have experienced during my time as a member of the Laois Comhairle na nÓg," Anna said.