Gaisce Youth Ambassador from Offaly visits European Parliament

THE Gaisce – The President's Award Youth Ambassador Panel - travelled to Brussels from April 21st to 24th, 2025. During this trip, they toured the European Parliament, met with representatives from the European Youth Forum, and participated in workshops with inspiring figures. The Ambassadors were hosted by MEP Maria Walsh, who engaged with the Ambassadors to discuss the issues affecting young people in Ireland today.

Among the Ambassadors who attended the trip was Eoin Moylan from Kilcormac, Offaly.

MEP Maria Walsh dedicated time from her busy schedule to personally give the Ambassadors a tour of the Parliament, engage in discussions around topics that affect Ireland's young people and give them insights into the inner workings of the European Parliament.

The Ambassadors also had the opportunity to receive career advice from three professionals in the Parliament: Michael Scanlon from the VISSEM Centre, Deirdre O'Hea, formerly the Head of Cabinet to Mairead McGuinness and currently with the European Parliament's Internal Bureau, and Niall Thompson, the Head of Support in the Parliament's IT Department. The three speakers guided the Ambassadors through alternative paths young people can take to work in the European Parliament institution.

Finally, the group visited the European Youth Forum to participate in a discussion on the most pressing issues faced by young people today, both in Ireland and throughout Europe.

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The Gaisce Youth Ambassador Panel consists of 12 young people from around Ireland. The Youth Ambassadors act as advocates or Gaisce among their peers and the broader youth audience while actively collaborating with the Gaisce team to enhance the award experience for other young people.

Speaking on the Gaisce Youth Ambassador Panel trip, Eoin Moylan, Gaisce Youth Ambassador said: "The trip to Brussels was a once in a lifetime opportunity. The opportunity to see in person the great work being done not only by the MEP but by all the staff members who contribute so much to European affairs. The endless opportunities given to young people are surreal and we take it for granted. As Irish people we see Europe to be a holiday destination, but it is so much more. A place to live, work and to be a proud European citizen no matter what country you are from.”