Over 500 young people involved in Comhairle na nÓg, including members from Laois, gathered at Croke Park stadium recently.
This was to showcase and celebrate their wide range of achievements and be inspired by a host of speakers and entertainers.
The National Showcase is a biannual event that highlights the work of the members of Comhairle na nÓg and how young people have had their voices heard on policies, services and issues that impact on their lives.
The event gave the 31 Comhairle na nÓg groups the opportunity to exhibit their work and engage directly with local and national decision makers to inform them about the topics and issues that are important to them.
The Laois group was made up of: Mia Rankin, Ava Foley, Liam McNulty Nolan, Lucy Doyle, Emily Costigan, Abigail Lalor, Sarah Vesey, Rosemary Kunene (co-ordinator), Anna-Maria Sahaidac, Shauna Traynor, Dolly Nevin and Katie Stafford.
Comhairle na nÓg are local youth councils (aged 12-18) that give young people a voice on the development of local policies and services.
They are the recognised national structure for participation by children and young people in decision-making. There is a Comhairle na nÓg embedded in each of the 31 local authorities.
Radio and television personality Doireann Garrihy led proceedings during the day along with hosting a panel of young people to discuss how they have had the opportunity to engage with decision makers and influence decision making through Comhairle na nÓg.
The Dublin Gospel Choir provided the entertainment with special renditions of some well known songs.
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