ISSU Statement: Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU) welcomes the UK government's proposal to expand voting rights to 16 and 17-year-olds.
The Irish Second-Level Students' Union (ISSU) has been a consistent voice for lowering the voting age to 16 since its foundation in 2008 and welcomes the UK government's proposal to expand the voting age to 16 and 17-year-olds.
ISSU is a firm advocate for encouraging young people to be active citizens and participants in democracy and believes that lowering the voting age to 16 is a move that supports these ideals.
ISSU Uachtarán (President) Preston Ó Caoimh says:
“It’s amazing to see more governments recognise the importance of allowing young people the ability to make their voices heard in the polls. Much like in Ireland, the youth in the United Kingdom work, pay taxes and can even join the armed forces. We urge our own government to follow on from this and work towards extending voting rights to those aged 16 and 17. In a world where the future is becoming increasingly uncertain, it is imperative that we have a say in the government that will shape our lives for years to come."
Leas-Uachtarán (Deputy President) Billy Campbell added:
“The recent development in the United Kingdom is a showcase of a modern government adapting to a modern world. It demonstrates a willingness to trust young people with the power to shape their future. This progressive step should inspire our own leaders to consider a similar decision. I urge our government to follow the example set by our closest neighbour and work to ensure that young people are adequately represented in our voting laws.”
ISSU recognises that this proposal is not without controversy but believes that allowing younger people the opportunity to vote will increase civic engagement among this cohort. This is supported by evidence from countries such as Scotland and Austria, which had higher voter turnouts among the 16 -17 age bracket as opposed to the 18 - 24 age bracket after lowering their voting age (European Youth Forum). https://www.youthforum.org/topics/lower-the-voting-age
ISSU Statement: Leaving Cert Reform Decision Backed by Students
The Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU) welcomes Minister McEntee’s decision to continue with the introduction of Senior Cycle Redevelopment, despite calls for a ‘one year pause’.
ISSU President, Jack McGinn, said: ‘We welcome Minister McEntee’s decision to continue with Senior Cycle Redevelopment. We are redeveloping our Senior Cycle because we need to deliver a better system for students, that is what these redevelopments will achieve - we cannot afford to wait another year. I welcome the announcement of specific posts of responsibilities to support schools in implementing the reforms, and the increase and extension of grant funding for the science subjects - ensuring that students will have equal access to resources.’
‘The ISSU encourages stakeholders to support the implementation support measures. It is imperative that we deliver clarity for students on the ground, to enable them to reach their full potential’, McGinn added.
The ISSU highlights the importance of the phased implementation of redeveloped subjects. Tranche 1 of the redeveloped subjects, launching this September, will include eight subjects; Ancient Greek, Arabic, Biology, Chemistry, Latin, Physics, and Business Studies. Remaining redeveloped subjects will launch gradually, in subsequent tranches.
ISSU Statement: The ISSU expresses their condolences on the passing of Mrs. Gemma Hussey
The Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU) extends their deepest condolences to the family and friends of former TD and Minister for Education, Mrs. Gemma Hussey.
Mrs. Hussey served as Ireland's first female Minister of Education, and was a trailblazer for her time. She was passionate about female rights, especially in education, and she will be remembered for her time as a powerful voice for women in Irish Politics.
Our sympathies are with Mrs. Husseys family and friends at this time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.
