Don’t ignore the voices of young people

YOUNG people throughout Ireland are fired up about the situation in Iraq like never before on any issue. They have joined protests in their thousands and have spoken passionately and emotionally against the war and the use of Shannon airport. It has politicised young people in a way that has not been known for decades.

The dismissal of their protests against the war and against the use of Shannon has left young people feeling disillusioned and angry.

The result will be increased alienation from the political process and loss of respect for Government and democratic action among many young people.

In this sense the casualties of this unjust and bloody war are greater than many of us may imagine.

Kevin Hickey,

President,

National Youth Council of Ireland,

3, Montague St,

Dublin 2.