Dáil debate for teenagers

Around 200 teenagers will gather in the Dáil today to debate and vote on issues related to education and mental health reform.

Dáil na nÓg is the national youth parliament and is overseen and funded by the Office of the Minister for Children.

Delegates are elected by their local Comhairle na nÓg throughout the country.

Minister for Children Brendan Smith will address the delegates and a question-and-answer session will be chaired by RTÉ’s Aine Lawlor.

The discussion on mental health will focus on suicide, bullying, peer pressure, drugs, alcohol and support services available to teenagers.

Education reform talks will centre on reform of the curriculum, assessment and points system, teaching of languages and sports and physical activity.

Dail na nÓg provides young people with an opportunity to raise their concerns and meets annually.