Teenage pregnancy, sexually-transmitted diseases, teenage suicide, anti-social behaviour orders and the need for more youth facilities were among the issues discussed at a social awareness forum for young people in Alexandra College, Dublin, yesterday.
The "Young Social Innovators (YSI) Speak Out" forum, which was attended by more than 200 students from 10 schools, offered participants the chance to speak about issues of concern to them.
Participants also made presentations on issues such as bullying, domestic violence and road safety. Frequently, these were accompanied by music and/or dramatic portrayals of the issues involved.
The event was opened by Minister of State at the Department of Education Síle de Valera. Among those who attended was one of YSI's patrons, Irish rugby international Denis Hickie. Also present were senior members of the Garda and YSI's chairwoman, Sr Stanislaus Kennedy.
In her address, Ms de Valera said she welcomed the opportunity the forum provided to highlight the positive contribution of young people at a time when they too often attracted the wrong type of publicity.
"The fora will give these young people here today - and others around the country - an opportunity of presenting their work to local community leaders, councillors and influencers in business, social, voluntary, community and statutory services, as well as parents, teachers and principals within the local schools," she said.
Saraf Anan (15), a fourth-year student at Alexandra College, helped to present a report on the consequences of teenage pregnancy, including sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). This showed that the 20-29 age group had the highest incidence of STIs.
"Young people need more education at school, while STI screening should be more accessible and affordable," she said. "For example, the 20-29 age group should have free screening and treatment. Young Social Innovators does help our cause, I think."
The group is planning to survey students in UCD about their sexual activity, both in the present and when they were at school. It hopes to eventually produce an information leaflet on the issue, written by teenagers for teenagers.
Another presentation, by students of Loreto College Crumlin, was entitled "Asbos - No Go". Louise Kearns, one of those involved, said that the group had already held a meeting with local politicians to explain why they thought "asbos" were a bad idea. Instead, the students wanted to see more youth facilities provided in the Crumlin and Drimnagh areas and a greater emphasis placed on helping those with problems.
"The elections are coming up and we want TDs to listen to young people," she said. "Not all young people go out and crash cars."
Yesterday's YSI forum was the fourth of seven to be held around the State. Those involved will make final recommendations on their chosen social issue at the annual YSI National Showcase in Citywest, Dublin, next May.