IRISH PRESIDENCY OF THE EU A Youth Perspective

European Movement Ireland November 2013 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency i First published in November 2013 by: © European Movement Ireland 2013

Designed by: Kaz Productions Printed by: Walsh Colour Print Photograpy: European Movement Ireland, YMIP journalists, Paul Sherwood Cartoons: Eoin Kelleher, YMIP TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD 2

INTRODUCTION 3 Overview and Background 4 Youth in Action 4

THE JOURNALISTS 5 Who are they and where are they now? 6

THE EXPERIENCE 13 Timeline 14 Highlights of the YMIP Programme 15 Support and Training 17 Media Coverage 19

THE REPORTING 21

THE OUTCOMES 49 Achievements 50 Learning 51

THE PARTNERSHIP 53 Meet the Partners 54 Hear from the Partners 56

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 59

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 1 FOREWORD

Welcome to this Report on Digital Agenda Assembly and the European Movement Ireland’s 2013 EU Youth Conference; our reporters Programme, Youth Media and were there, covering developments, the Irish Presidency (YMIP). EM interviewing high-profile delegates Ireland was delighted to have been and speakers, and representing successful in applying to Léargas Ireland’s young generation. for funding for YMIP in 2012 under the European Commission’s Youth I would like to take this opportunity in Action programme. Since its to congratulate the 25 young launch in January 2013, YMIP has citizen journalists from around the grown and developed beyond all island of Ireland who took part our expectations, evolving into a in YMIP and who, through their huge achievement for everyone hard work, talent and enthusiasm, involved – the 25 young journalist made the Programme such a participants, the team here at success. In the following pages, EM Ireland and our partner you will see a selection of their organisations. work. A snapshot of the YMIP coverage of the Presidency can also This year is a unique and important be found and explored at www. one in Irish-EU relations. The europeanmovement.ie/ymip and seventh Irish Presidency, which ran its range and quality are a tribute from January to June, coincided to the work and talent of the with the fortieth anniversary of journalists. I have no doubt that all Ireland’s accession to the EU (then 25 participants will succeed and go European Economic Community). far in their future careers, and I look 2013 was also designated European forward to tracking their progress Year of Citizens by the European over the coming years. Commission, with the aim of encouraging citizen participation YMIP would not have been “Tying in with in the EU and creating a dialogue possible without the support and between EU citizens and European important contributions of our the aims of the representatives. Tying in with partner organisations – Community the aims of the European Year of Relations in Schools (CRIS), European Year Citizens, YMIP came about through European Movement Northern EM Ireland’s desire to see a seventh Ireland, SpunOut.ie, and Youth of Citizens, YMIP Irish Presidency which would fully Advocate Programmes (YAP) Ireland engage with and involve Ireland’s – and YMIP’s Media Consultant, came about young people. Marion Creely. My sincere thanks also to Léargas, the Irish Presidency through EM With YMIP, we set out to bring team and the Department of the a fresh youth perspective to Taoiseach. Finally, I would like to Ireland’s desire coverage of the Irish Presidency, pay tribute to the work of the EM and so our team of 25 citizen Ireland team, in particular Ruth, and to see a seventh journalists attended and reported also Billie and Neale, whose efforts on some of the biggest and most ensured the smooth running of Irish Presidency important events of the Presidency. YMIP from start to finish. which would fully From the launch of the European Year of Citizens 2013 in January engage with and by President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, Noelle O Connell involve Ireland’s Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD and Executive Director Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD; to the European Movement Ireland young people.”

2 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION

OVERVIEW AND BACKGROUND

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency (YMIP) is an all-Ireland initiative developed in autumn 2012 by European Movement Ireland, in YOUTH IN ACTION collaboration with a number of partner organisations north and south of the border – Community Relations in Schools (CRIS), European Movement YMIP is funded under Youth in Northern Ireland, SpunOut.ie and Youth Advocate Programmes (YAP) Action, the EU’s mobility and Ireland – and Marion Creely, the programme’s Media Consultant. The aim non-formal education programme of YMIP was to open up the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European targeting young people aged Union, which took place from 1 January 2013 to 30 June 2013, to the between 13 and 30. Youth in young people of Ireland by recruiting a team of 25 young citizen journalists Action aims to inspire a sense to report on both the Presidency and broader European affairs in the first of active European citizenship, six months of the year. solidarity and tolerance among young Europeans and to involve Recruited from across the island of Ireland, our journalists were aged them in shaping the future of between 18 and 25 and all enthusiastic communicators, innovators and the EU. It promotes mobility changemakers. EM Ireland worked with our partner organisations to recruit within and beyond the EU’s participants from schools, colleges and youth clubs across the Republic of borders, non-formal learning Ireland and Northern Ireland. The YMIP team was then brought together and intercultural dialogue, and in Dublin for training and their first assignment – coverage of the launch of encourages the inclusion of the European Year of Citizens 2013 and a Citizens’ Dialogue in Dublin City all young people, regardless Hall – on 9 and 10 January 2013. of their educational, social and cultural background. In From then until the end of the Irish Presidency in June, our team of Ireland, Youth in Action funding journalists were present at all the major Presidency events, attending is administered by Léargas, a and covering Informal Meetings of Ministers, press conferences, the visit not-for-profit organisation which to Ireland of Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International manages European, national Monetary Fund, international conferences and more. Their presence at, and international exchange and and coverage of, these events brought a new perspective to Presidency cooperation programmes in proceedings – that of Irish and European young people. Not only were education, training and youth and they raising awareness of the Presidency among their peers and in their community work. local areas throughout the island of Ireland, they were also promoting young people and their levels of engagement and interest to the politicians Further information about Youth and other groups at these events. in Action can be found at eacea. ec.europa.eu/youth. This Report catalogues the work and findings of YMIP, and introduces the people involved in the initiative – the 25 young citizen journalists and EM Read more about the work of Ireland’s partner organisations. Léargas at www.leargas.ie.

“Being tasked with covering official events during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU was both an exciting and daunting task. It was great to have access to places and people that the general public did not. As citizen journalists, we had to provide material that would be accessible and interesting to as many people as possible.” Órla Ryan 4 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE JOURNALISTS THE JOURNALISTS

YMIP kicked off with a call from EM Ireland and our YMIP partner organisations to Ireland’s young people, looking for individuals who wanted to see the concerns and opinions of Ireland’s young citizens represented in coverage of the Irish Presidency.

We received a huge number of applications from all corners of the island, leaving us with the unenviable task of whittling down the hugely talented group of applicants to just 25 participants. In the following pages our journalists, who are divided into five regions on the basis of European Parliament constituencies, introduce themselves to you in their own words.

WHO ARE THEY AND WHERE ARE THEY NOW? DUBLIN Tarisai May Chidawanyika Eoin Kelleher (@EoinKr) (@TarieMay) Eoin is a student of medicine at Before joining YMIP, May was a the Royal College of Surgeons first-year Law student in University in Ireland. He grew up and went College Dublin. After six months to school in Dublin, and has in the role of YMIP journalist, maintained an active interest she has come to see journalism in both politics and art from as a way to speak for those who a young age. He has been cannot speak for themselves and reduced to the ‘lesser’ art she is now considering an MA form of cartoons at this stage, in Journalism. She is currently however. Eoin contributes considering becoming a journalist for the UN given her political cartoons to The Phoenix and University Law background. May particularly enjoyed accrediting Times, as well as various RCSI publications. He is for and attending important events because her also currently the chief editor of the RCSI Student media badges gave her a sense of pride and a feeling Medical Journal. of achievement. The highlight of YMIP for May was the field trip to a farm in County Meath as part of the Informal Meeting of Agriculture Ministers as she got Laura Mc Loughlin (@90_laura) an opportunity to experience Irish identity and culture. Laura is in her final year of Today, May is an ambitious young woman who hopes to her English Studies degree at one day become one of the EU leaders who inspired her Trinity College Dublin. She during the Irish Presidency. She is now also a reporter for is project leader of WriteUp!, the International Students’ Society in UCD for the year an Enactus TCD literacy/ 2013/2014. journalism initiative aimed at transition year students. Laura’s interests include media, Sallyanne Downes writing, blogging, travelling, Sallyanne Downes is a media volunteering and working graduate from Dublin City with children and young people. She currently University, where she specialised volunteers as a student mentor at Bridge21, an in video production. She is educational initiative between Suas and TCD. In passionate about student March 2013, Laura was awarded an EIL Access empowerment, youth Travel award to work on educational projects in participation, mental health Mexico, where she spent the summer teaching awareness, development and English to Mexican children. Since finishing YMIP, social enterprise. In university, she Laura has continued to pursue her interests in ran a social enterprise called ‘Raising and Giving’, which writing and media. She has written blogs for aims to provide a support structure for students to set EIL Intercultural Learning and Spunout.ie. Since up social initiatives that make an impact on Irish society. returning from Mexico, Laura has also completed a Last September, she represented Ireland on behalf of FETAC Radio Course in Media Expression. ‘Raising and Giving’ at Enactus, a global social enterprise competition in Washington DC.

6 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE JOURNALISTS

EAST

Mary Browne (@MaryBrowne1) as Women for Election, Show Racism the Red Card, Mary hails from Tullow, and Women with Altitude. Ciara currently works with Co. Carlow. She recently the Ireland correspondent for France 24, assisting in graduated with a degree in the production of packages for a number of French Communications from Dublin TV stations. Ciara’s background is in research and City University where she political communication. She previously worked in studied photography as part the European Parliament, Dáil Éireann and Seanad of her course. During her time Éireann. A returned émigré, Ciara hopes to now in college, Mary served as continue working as a journalist in Ireland. She has Events Manager in the Raising started a blog and often live-tweets from events she and Giving Society, one of the attends – usually of a political nature. You can find largest societies in the university which was recently Ciara’s extended bio on her website at ciaragalvin. awarded ‘Best Civic Contribution’ for its work with wordpress.com/about. young children in disadvantaged areas. Mary is a big fan of social media and is constantly glued to her Facebook and Twitter pages. YMIP has been David Nowak (@NowakDave) a great experience and dramatically increased her David is an Economics and interest in European politics, particularly on youth German student in University issues. During Ireland’s Presidency term, she was College Dublin. Born in most interested in the developments on the Youth Germany, he lived in Poland Guarantee Scheme. before moving to Ireland. Dave spent part of 2013 interning in the Department of the Taoiseach Ciara Galvin (@CiaraLeena) and is a member of Young Ciara is a 24 year old freelance Fine Gael (YFG), holding two journalist from Celbridge, Co. committee positions; Vice-Chair Kildare. Since January her of Wexford YFG and Public Relations Officer of the work has been published on Dublin Regional Council. Dave has been taking TheJournal.ie, on Spunout.ie, photos since 2008 when he got his first camera. and in regional papers. Her photos have been used on social media by organisations such

“Our education, employment, economy and rights are constantly on the agenda of the EU. All the meetings I attended sought to give fairer and better lives to those who lived in the EU […] It is not an easy thing to ensure that the inhabitants of 28 countries are satisfied, but I have seen that the EU does make an effort through its policies, directives and various institutions.” Tarisai May Chidawanyika

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 7 THE JOURNALISTS

NORTH-WEST

Sorcha Cusack (@sorchacusack) Clodagh Garry (@ClodaghGarry) Sorcha studies Law with French Clodagh has recently Law in University College Dublin. completed a Masters degree in With years of experience as a Communications and Journalism youth activist, Sorcha applied in the Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta to join the YMIP team out Gaeilge at NUI Galway. For her of a desire to help connect thesis, Clodagh studied the effects more young people with the of media reporting on the fair trial EU. YMIP was Sorcha’s first process. Clodagh is passionate experience in journalism, having about the Irish language and Irish previously only written on a culture and holds a degree in Irish personal basis for her blog, www.astoldbysorcha. and New Media from the University of Limerick. Her com. Since YMIP, Sorcha has kept up her interest training involves creating news packages, from recording in EU affairs by studying in Paris. After her role to editing, for both television and radio. During the YMIP reporting on events during the Irish Presidency, she programme, Clodagh was published on Foinse.ie, Beo!, now has her sights set on developing her studies Campus.ie, The Daily Shift and has spoken on BBC Ulster around EU law and French. Sorcha says that she and Newstalk radio stations. learnt a lot more about the importance of social media in getting articles and opinions broadcast and has since developed her blog to include her views on Laura Gaynor (@_LauraGaynor) current and social affairs as well as her own personal Laura is an eighteen year old experiences. filmmaker from Sligo. Laura sat the Leaving Certificate in June 2013 and is now a student at Dun Isabella De Luca (@izdeluca) Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design Isabella is twenty-one years and Technology. She started old. She was born and raised in making movies when camera Ireland but inherited her Italian phones came out and began name, passion and good taste showing them to the outside world in food from her dad. Isabella in 2010. Her films have since been is studying Arts with Creative shown in Ireland as well as places like Greece, Croatia, Writing at NUI Galway. Her Chicago and what have you. Four have been broadcast third year in college has been on RTÉ Two. Another was partially shown during an dedicated to keeping a blog interview. aimed at young people which includes news and commentary on social and current affairs. The articles she wrote for YMIP became an Richard Manton (@mantonr) integral part of that work. Isabella’s highlight of the Richard is a PhD student in Civil programme was the opportunity to bring the Irish Engineering at NUI Galway, Presidency closer to the youth of Ireland through researching the promotion her more personal opinion pieces. Isabella is now of sustainable transport. His going into the final year of her degree, and is looking main interests are politics, forward to seeing where her writing and experience environment and education. He with YMIP will lead her after she graduates. is also interested in international development and has volunteered in Haiti, Zambia and Germany.

Richard is a big fan of Irish culture, particularly Gaelic Games, Irish language and music and a few pints of Guinness! However, he does think it is possible (and necessary) to have a truly inter-cultural Europe, based on respect, peace and economic inclusivity.

8 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE JOURNALISTS

NORTHERN IRELAND

Órla Ryan Andrew Coffman-Smith (@CoffmanSmith) (@orlaryan) At the outset of YMIP, Andrew was finishing When she his MA Journalism course at the University joined of Ulster at Coleraine. Andrew holds a BA in the YMIP History and Political Science from the University Programme, of Tennessee. Previously, he has worked as a Órla was in staff writer for two weekly papers, a production the middle of assistant for an award-winning documentary a Journalism and a communications intern for a US Masters in Congressman. During his time in YMIP, he had NUI Galway. the great opportunity to meet various journalists, She has since completed this professionals and politicians including the Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. course and is due to graduate His more memorable moments during YMIP include his first hands- in November. While studying at on experiences with broadcast journalism and interviewing EU and NUI Galway, Órla was a columnist Irish statesmen and Eurosceptic protesters. Since YMIP, Andrew has and co-features editor with Sin, completed six-week placements at the investigative news website, The the university newspaper, and Detail, and at The Irish News. A portfolio of his published work can be contributed to the college radio found at coffmansmith.contently.com. station, Flirt FM, on two current affairs shows. Over the last few months, Órla has completed Caithlin Corrigan (@CaithlinC) internships with The Connacht Caithlin works for Concern Worldwide as a Tribune Group of newspapers Direct Marketing Executive. She completed and The Irish Times. She has her MA in International Relations and is recently completed an internship currently studying for a post-graduate diploma with The New York Observer in International Development. Before that, and is currently interning with she studied for a BSc in Communications, The Guardian. Following her Advertising and Marketing. internships, she hopes to find a full-time job in journalism. Órla’s highlight of YMIP was co- interviewing Christine Lagarde, Blaine Gaffney (@blainesligonew) the Managing Director of the Blaine is an Irish politics Masters student at Queens International Monetary Fund. Her University Belfast. In the future, Blaine would like to main interests are journalism, work with a governmental department or public body photography and running. Her in Ireland, the UK or the European Union, as public biggest achievement to date affairs is his ultimate passion. His ideal role would is running the Dublin City be a position allowing him to work with security and Marathon with her family in 2012. defence related policies. Before YMIP, Blaine had no Collectively they raised over prior experience of working in a journalistic role or a11,200 for cancer services in with covering large scale events such as those involved Sligo General Hospital. in the Irish EU Presidency. His main experience lay in political communication and administrative roles. Blaine recently completed his dissertation and has been appointed the North-West International Officer on the new International Committee in Young Fine Gael. Blaine’s highlights of the YMIP programme are the YMIP training day in Dublin where he got to speak to the Taoiseach, exclusively covering the announcement by Minister Alan Shatter about the Irish Defence Forces deployment on the EU Training Mission to Mali and also the really nice people he got to meet on the programme.he will be actively seeking employment. Blaine has also been appointed as the North-West International Officer on the new International Committee in Young Fine Gael.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 9 THE JOURNALISTS

Una Kelly James Mulhall (@dodgeyjammer) When Una joined YMIP she James is 22 and has just finished was a final year student of Law his journalism Masters degree in and German in Trinity College the University of Ulster, Coleraine. Dublin. She has since successfully He comes from a tiny place completed her final exams and called Walsh Island in Co. Offaly. is due to graduate in November. He moved to Galway to study Originally from Derry, Una Sociology, Political Science and currently lives and works in Berlin Geography in NUI Galway in 2008, and is enjoying further developing before moving to Coleraine in her language capabilities every Co. Derry for his postgraduate day. After spending a year studying in Hamburg she studies. At the moment, James is finishing up his thesis developed an interest in meeting other young Europeans on the topic “Has the media in the Republic of Ireland and hopes to get to know other cities and people influenced people’s perceptions of Northern Ireland?” across the continent in the future. Una was involved in while he is on placement with SpunOut.ie. James journalism before YMIP, having completed internships loves to travel and hopes to do so after his studies are at BBC Radio Foyle and The Irish Times. She was also complete. He has also volunteered in the past and would a reporter for Trinity News and online news editor at very much like to do so again. An amateur linguist, The University Times. Having gained more skills and James completed an intermediate certificate in Irish while experiences through YMIP she hopes to pursue a career studying for his postgraduate degree. in journalism, with a particular focus on human rights and international law. Her highlight of the YMIP programme was a social media workshop, as she feels she learned Aine O’Doherty (@aineodoherty) a lot about the indispensable role of social media in the Before joining YMIP, Aine was rapidly changing world of journalism. studying for a professional journalism qualification in the North West Regional College in Maeve Montague Derry. While there, she worked Maeve has always been interested for a local newspaper on a ten- and curious about the world we month placement, and also gained live in, and impassioned by social two weeks work experience with justice and rights. She has always UTV. Along with this hands on wanted to be involved in changing experience, YMIP helped Aine to the world for the better and, develop her inter-personal skills, and gain real experience being a ferocious reader, thought at important, high-profile events. Since YMIP, Aine has it would be journalism which gained employment as a full-time reporter with the would do this. Five years ago, Tyrone Constitution in Omagh. Aine’s highlights of YMIP she moved from her native Tyrone include the regional workshop in Belfast, where YMIP to Dublin to study medicine and she hopes to work with members were given time to question former Minister Médecins Sans Frontières after graduation, and stay Lucinda Creighton TD and visit Stormont for a session on involved with development. Youth in Europe.

“I was surprised that finding the “human element” or hook in EU stories wasn’t as hard as I expected it to be.” Andrew Coffman-Smith

10 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE JOURNALISTS

SOUTH

Marie Dromey (@mariedromey) Tricia Purcell (@purcell_t) Marie has recently completed Before joining YMIP, Tricia had a Masters in Psychology in recently completed a graduate the University of Limerick. diploma in journalism from the Previously, she graduated with University of Limerick and was a degree in Applied Psychology working as a subeditor intern from University College with SpunOut.ie. Hailing from Cork. Outside of studies and Tipperary and now living in Psychology, she has spent the Dublin, Tricia has returned to last few years acting as an work with SpunOut.ie as an alumnus with the European online journalist and subeditor Youth Parliament, which has brought her all over on a 12-month contract. She hopes to build her skillset Europe. She also enjoys debating with university. over this period and continue a career in the media In her spare time, Marie is an avid music and sector. Tricia’s highlight from the six months as a YMIP photography fan. reporter was co-interviewing Christine Lagarde on International Women’s Day. The interview with the head of the IMF was recorded and used on RTÉ. Giving the Carlynn McCarthy (@Carlynnmcc) Presidency a youth perspective in Ireland was another Carlynn is a multi-disciplined highlight of Tricia’s and she hopes to continue to shine a journalist and blogger with a light on youth issues in her future work. degree in European Integration Studies. She has worked in radio, print and online. Her Aisling Twomey (@taisling) experience includes marketing, Aisling is 23 and studied at copy writing, editing and the University College Cork for four management of social media years, completing a BCL (Hons) platforms. Carlynn speaks fluent in 2011 and an LLM (Criminal Spanish and has a good working Justice) in 2012. She has six knowledge of Italian, Portuguese and French. She years of journalism experience, has a penchant for all things social media, boxing and locally, nationally and using the word penchant. internationally, both in print and online. Aisling is a dedicated social media user and currently works in political communication.

“The past six months have gone too fast; YMIP introduced me to on-location media procedures and gave me the chance to use social media for news delivery during live events, which taught me a great deal about the power of the internet in the 21st century.Better than that, YMIP gave me an insider’s glance at EU politics, the sheer scope of EU policy and the level of organisation needed to keep the European project running on a day to day basis.” Aisling Twomey

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 11 THE JOURNALISTS

“Probably the most important skill I feel I gained [through YMIP] was the confidence in my own verbal communication skills. Prior to the YMIP programme, for example, I would have never engaged with high-ranking politicians or personalities due to my anxiety and nervousness when asking a question. Now, however, I am always on the lookout for someone to grill with difficult questions.” Blaine Gaffney

12 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE EXPERIENCE THE EXPERIENCE

TIMELINE

Date Event Early January 2013 YMIP team are brought together for the programme’s induction and first training days 10 January 2013 Launch of European Year of Citizens 2013 and Citizens’ Dialogue in Dublin City Hall with Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD and President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso YMIP Press Conference with Vice-President of the European Commission, Viviane Reding January-June 2013 YMIP journalists attend and report on official and associated Irish Presidency events in Dublin and around Ireland Mid-February 2013 Regional Mentoring and Reflection Session for YMIP South Constituency journalists, Cork Early March 2013 Regional Mentoring and Reflection Session for YMIP Northern Ireland Constituency journalists, Belfast 8 March 2013 International Women’s Day Two YMIP journalists – Tricia Purcell and Órla Ryan – interview Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Late March 2013 YMIP Midway Training and Reflection Day, Dublin Early April 2013 Regional Mentoring and Reflection Session for YMIP North-West Constituency journalists, Galway Early May 2013 Regional Mentoring and Reflection Session for YMIP Dublin and East Constituency journalists, Dublin Mid-June 2013 YMIP Social Media Training Day, Dublin Late July 2013 Final YMIP Training Day, Dublin July-November 2013 Feedback on YMIP and input into Report from YMIP partners and participants 20 November 2013 Launch of YMIP Report

“As part of YMIP, I have met the Taoiseach, countless government ministers and 24 talented, enthused young writers, videographers, photographers, cartoonists and more from across Ireland, North and South. I have had opportunities I most certainly would not have gotten outside of the programme and for these opportunities, I am very grateful.” James Mulhall

14 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE EXPERIENCE

#Verbatim Citizens’ Dialogue. #Verbatim is a soundbite-based project devised by two of our YMIP journalists, Marie Dromey and Aisling Twomey, HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YMIP PROGRAMME which presents multiple viewpoints of events through memorable quotes, word for word.

Launch of the European Year of Citizens 2013 and Citizens’ Dialogue On Thursday, 10 January 2013, the European Year of Citizens was launched in Dublin City Hall by the Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD, and President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso. This Launch was followed by a Citizens’ Dialogue between 200 citizens, Vice-President of the European Commission, Commissioner Viviane Reding, and then Minister of State for European Affairs, Lucinda Creighton TD.

Thursday, 10 January 2013 was also only the second day of YMIP for the 25 young journalists. Just the day before, they had all met each other for the first time at the YMIP induction and first training days. The day’s programme, put together and delivered in collaboration with EM Ireland’s partner organisations, featured team-building exercises, informal Q&A sessions with journalists and media experts, and briefing sessions on the EU; its institutions, work and the Presidency of the Council of the EU. This allowed the group to get to know each other at the outset of the Programme, learn about the work of the Irish Presidency and hear from media and political experts on how best to navigate European affairs and the Irish Presidency over the six months ahead.

The Launch of the European Year of Citizens and the Citizens’ Dialogue were the first assignments for the 25 YMIP journalists and saw them competing for interviews, photos and soundbites with professional journalists from around the world. The journalists were also afforded an exclusive YMIP-only press point with Vice-President Reding after the conclusion of the Citizens’ Dialogue. What better way to cut their journalistic teeth?!

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 15 THE EXPERIENCE

Briefing with the Taoiseach At the YMIP Midway Training and Reflection Day in March 2013, the YMIP journalists received a surprise visit from the Taoiseach, who popped in to say hello and sit down for a chat with the journalists. Despite being taken aback by their surprise guest, our journalists stepped up to the mark and served him some tough questions, on issues ranging from the Presidency and the economic situation, to emigration and youth issues.

Christine Lagarde On Friday, 8 March 2013, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Christine Lagarde, visited Dublin for talks with the Taoiseach and Tánaiste. EM Ireland, in collaboration with the Press Section of the Irish Presidency, secured a one-to-one interview for YMIP with Ms Lagarde.

On International Women’s Day, Tricia Purcell and Órla Ryan found themselves in the incredible position of interviewing one of the most successful and powerful women in the world. Their articles were published in the Tipperary Star and online by The Daily Shift and Campus. ie. Soundbites from their interview were also used by Galway Bay FM and Flirt FM, and the interview was featured on RTÉ Television’s daily afternoon show, Today.

You can listen to the interview in full online at soundcloud.com/european-movement-ireland/ ymip-christine-lagarde.

16 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE EXPERIENCE

Three of our South Constituency journalists with Mary Smithwick, Political Editor, Evening Echo.

SUPPORT AND TRAINING Throughout YMIP, a strong emphasis was placed on providing the 25 citizen journalists with opportunities for learning, upskilling, peer collaboration, mentoring and reflection. These were designed to complement the informal learning which was taking place as the journalists attended and reported on events. This support and training was delivered through a series of support, “The experience mentoring, reflection and training sessions held over the course of the Programme on both a regional and national basis. has been a steep Regional Mentoring and Reflection Sessions learning curve. It Regional Mentoring and Reflection Sessions were held during the Irish all feels like a bit Presidency in each of the five YMIP Regions, or European Parliament constituencies; South, East, Dublin, North-West and Northern Ireland. The of a blur, from the purpose of these sessions was twofold: to allow the YMIP journalists from that region the opportunity to reflect on their experience of the programme moment I found out thusfar, and to meet with a working journalist from their region in an informal I had a place on the and friendly setting. In the Reflection Session, participants discussed YMIP, their experiences of programme, to the and hopes for the Programme, and their goals for the remaining time. These two-day crash course Sessions were an opportunity for the journalists to re-focus themselves and their work, and also to hear and learn from their fellow participants. These in January and then Sessions were facilitated by youth workers from the respective regions. right into the deep The second part of the day was a Mentoring Session – simply put, a couple of hours of chat with a professional journalist based in the region the YMIP end covering events participants represented. This afforded the YMIP journalists the opportunity to meet with a practising journalist in an informal setting where they would in Dublin every be able to discuss experiences, ask questions and compare notes on careers month.” in journalism and the Irish media. Isabella De Luca

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 17 THE EXPERIENCE

Midway Training and Reflection Day In mid-March 2013, EM Ireland organised a Midway Training and Reflection Day in Dublin for the YMIP journalists to allow everyone involved in YMIP – the EM Ireland team, partner organisations, and YMIP journalists – to catch up with each other, discuss their progress and to look ahead to the remaining three months of the Irish Presidency and the YMIP Presidency coverage.

Training sessions on the day were designed based on feedback from the Regional Mentoring and Reflection Sessions, and focused on correct and effective use of social media and issues of libel and ethics in journalism. There was also a panel discussion with a cross-party group of political representatives on the Youth Guarantee, one of the major topics of the Irish Presidency, and the Taoiseach popped in for a surprise chat and briefing with the journalists.

Social Media Training Day In response to repeated requests for information and training on social media and its use in journalism and branding, EM Ireland organised a full-day social media training session in June 2013. Delivered by digital communications and online publicity strategist, Krishna De, the training day covered topics including writing content for the social web; building online visibility through blogging; using Twitter to connect with the media; using LinkedIn profiles to build your online profile; enhancing communications using multimedia content; and social media monitoring.

Final YMIP Training Day In July, to round off YMIP and its learning for the 25 journalists, we held a final training day in the Digital Hub, Dublin. The aim of the training day was to cement everything the journalists had learned over the previous six months and to equip them as they moved on from YMIP to further studies and careers. The day therefore had a focus on media and professional skills and learning. A session on on-camera skills was delivered by DHR Communications, Clear Ink provided training on clear writing skills, and Young Social Innovators facilitated a session on social entrepreneurship.

“At just my second Presidency event, a meeting of EU Defence Ministers, I walked through tight security with a camera and audio equipment borrowed for the day from my university newspaper. Unused to such settings and thinking I would be dismissed as too young, I quickly saw that it was best to throw myself in at the deep end and be assertive, whether confidently asking that question or elbowing for space along with national and European news reporters, all striving to get the best angle for their photo.”

Una Kelly

18 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE EXPERIENCE

MEDIA COVERAGE

Over the course of YMIP and beyond, our 25 citizen journalists managed to secure a huge amount and range of media coverage of the programme and of their own YMIP work. Over the six months of the Irish Presidency, YMIP work was featured:

• In the online and print versions of a number of Ireland’s national newspapers, including The Irish Times and The Irish Independent;

• On Ireland’s national television station, RTÉ1;

• In regional media around the country, including The Connacht Tribune, The Western People, The Tipperary Star, The Sligo Champion, The Fingal Independent and Foinse;

• Online, on TheJournal.ie, Broadsheet.ie, The Daily Shift, Campus.ie, and Beo!

The journalists also gained exclusive access to high-profile individuals through press conferences and interview opportunities, including:

• The Taoiseach; • The Tánaiste; • Managing Director of the IMF, Christine Lagarde; • Vice-President of the European Commission, Commissioner Viviane Reding; • Commissioner responsible for International Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, Kristalina Georgieva; Social Media • Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald TD; Social media, and in particular Facebook and Twitter, have been • Minister for Trade and Development, Joe Costello TD; key to building the profile and • Former Minister for European Affairs, Lucinda Creighton TD; visibility of YMIP and the citizen • Emer Costello MEP; journalists. EM Ireland set up a • Television presenter, Lloyd Grossman. Facebook page for the promotion of YMIP, the journalists and their content, and we also regularly YMIP journalists have been a hit on the radio too, appearing on RTÉ tweeted about the programme. Radio 1, BBC Northern Ireland, Newstalk, Radio Kerry, Galway Bay The citizen journalists also used FM, Flirt FM and Spin South-West. Facebook and Twitter themselves to promote their work to their This interest in the YMIP journalists has not subsided with the end of followers, as well as directly the Irish Presidency. Since the Presidency came to a close in June, to people they felt would be the journalists have continued to receive requests for articles and interested in their work, with some comment, and to appear as panelists on radio, television and at amazing results! live events. Carlynn McCarthy has appeared as a panelist on RTÉ Radio 1’s weekend show, Marian Finucane, for example. Perhaps the most exciting example of this is Clodagh Garry, who was asked to participate in an Irish-language panel debate at Electric Picnic about young people and Europe and engaging citizens in EU politics! Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 19 THE EXPERIENCE

“During my time with YMIP, I learned how to professionally tweet, record and edit audio podcasts; layer tracks to create atmosphere and interview the man-on- the-street for broadcast. Through YMIP, I also had my first experiences behind and in front of the camera where I got to learn everything from the logistics of shooting to editing footage into a final product suitable for broadcast. It was also through YMIP that I found my broadcast voice and learned how to write an informative but engaging analysis op-ed that is not outright partisan.”

Andrew Coffman-Smith

20 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING THE REPORTING

In the following pages, we have gathered a selection of the articles, photos, cartoons and other reports completed by the 25 YMIP journalists over the six months of the Irish Presidency. If you are interested in reading some more YMIP coverage, check out the YMIP blog at www.europeanmovement.ie/category/ ymip/.

JANUARY 2013

EU – Engaging with our Union Órla Ryan We live in an age where unprecedented levels of the European Economic Community and our six-month political connection are possible, and not just in Presidency of the Council of the EU. terms of technology. Despite this, many people feel disconnected from their public representatives at local, The formula is seemingly straightforward: a moderator national and international level. In modern democracies, oversees a Question and Answer session between the encouragement of citizen engagement with members of the public and Viviane Reding, Vice- politicians has become an increasingly common feature. President of the European Commission. The audience size varies from 200 to 500 people. An indigenous In 2012, the President of the European Commission, politician is also present for questioning – in the Irish José Manuel Barroso, called for a broad debate instance, State Minister for European Affairs, Fine Gael’s between officials and citizens of the European Lucinda Creighton, TD. Union. There are over 500 million citizens in the EU. Successfully bringing together a pool of people diverse At the Citizens’ Dialogue in Dublin, the debate was enough to truly represent this community is quite an split into three sections: the current economic crisis, undertaking, before one even begins to factor in the the rights of European citizens and the future of the element of productive discussion with a view to policy EU – with a particular focus on where we hope to be formation. in 2020. Topics covered included the possibility of an EU banking union and Minister for Finance, austerity Since September of last year, five ‘Citizens’ Dialogues’ budgets that target the most vulnerable, restructuring have taken place throughout Europe, the most recent of of the promissory note deal, unlinking bank debt and these being held in Dublin City Hall on 10 January. This sovereign debt, youth unemployment, retirement series of public-politician forums, entitled ‘A Debate age, climate change, gender inequality and the pay on the Future of Europe’, will continue until the end of gap, discrimination against individuals and smaller EU 2013. These dialogues coincide with the European Year countries, active citizenship and the idea of a ‘human of Citizens, the 40th anniversary of Ireland’s accession to rights scoreboard’ for member states.

Vice-President of the European Commission, Commissioner Viviane Reding, at the Citizens’ Dialogue in Dublin. Photo: Dave Nowak, YMIP.

22 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

A multifarious list, but one that merely scratches the are. The Commission website includes information on surface of our Union. Minister Creighton stressed the rights, but citizens have expressed their desire to receive inclusive nature of the EU at the forum, saying: “Every information from other platforms, most notably television Irish citizen, every one of the citizens of all member states (52 per cent); social networking websites (49 per cent) and candidate countries have a right to influence the and ‘Europedia’ – an online discussion forum (34 per direction of our union – to improve it, to make it better cent). One in ten citizens, meanwhile, felt there was no for the future.” need for extra information to be shared3.

Only a small fraction of those present got to ask their “Politicians are Listening” question. This is far from ideal but, logistically, was As a politician from Luxembourg, the EU’s smallest state, somewhat unavoidable. Such events cannot provide a Ms Reding regularly speaks directly to citizens and would portrait of the EU, but they can offer a snapshot and the like to see this process replicated across the continent process of citizen engagement has to start somewhere. and Union at large. “Something which has bothered One issue to consider in terms of the audience is that me at European level is that we are making too many those who apply to attend are often people who are big speeches, instead of going out and looking the already interested in politics. This leads to a continuous citizens in the eye and asking them their opinion.” She cycle of the same faces, the same voices and the added that the EU should involve citizens in the entire same sense of disconnect felt by those on the political decision making process, not just present them with a periphery. policy in its final form. “[The Citizens’ Dialogue series] is the beginning of a new adventure together [...] where One can easily become disillusioned with politics and politicians are listening,” she assured. the seemingly impenetrable mound of bureaucracy that surrounds it. Vice-President Reding stated that 69 At the close of the public discussion, Minister Creighton per cent of EU citizens believe their voices don’t count. acknowledged that many changes and reforms are What so for this silent majority? Are such debates simple needed within the EU as it “certainly isn’t perfect”. posturing, no more than lip service? She maintained that the Union must acknowledge its deficiencies and strengths alike in order to better itself. This disengagement could well be one of the As a follow-up to the Citizens’ Dialogue in the capital, her contributing factors to the steady decrease in voter office will organise a number of regional debates across turnout since the first direct European elections took Ireland where individuals, civil society organisations place in 1979. General turnout in the last elections in and NGOs can voice their opinions in a similar fashion. 2009 stood at 43 per cent1. The findings of a Europe- Minister Creighton also spoke of the need to improve wide survey from 2010 show that over eight in ten accountability, democracy and engagement at European citizens believe this figure would increase if voters level. She said that genuinely involving citizens in the received more information on the programmes and political process would be a challenge, but one that objectives of European Parliament candidates and would be met. “The evolution of Europe and Ireland’s how political parties’ programmes impact on people’s place in Europe is an on-going process,” she added. daily lives2. Unprecedented change has occurred in both Ireland In 2012 the European Commission undertook its largest and the EU since our marriage 40 years ago. Whatever ever public consultation, surveying almost 12,000 the next four decades will entail, one thing is for certain: European citizens about their experiences with EU citizen engagement is vital. Citizens’ Dialogues are a step rights. Commissioner Reding admitted that almost seven in the right direction on a very long journey. Whether or in ten European citizens don’t know what their rights not they will lead to tangible results: time will tell.

1 EU Citizenship Report 2010: ‘Dismantling the obstacles to EU citizens’ rights’ 2 Eurobarometer Qualitative Survey: ‘European Union Citizenship: Cross-Border Mobility’ (August 2010; as listed in EU Citizenship Report 2010). 3 EU Citizens’ Agenda: Public Consultation on EU Citizenship (2012 European Commission survey of 11,598 European citizens). Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 23 THE REPORTING

FEBRUARY 2013

Irish and British armies to join forces in Mali Una Kelly

As EU defence ministers came together on a wet February day for an informal meeting in Dublin Castle, Irish Defence Minister Alan Shatter greets the biggest development to emerge concerned our Anders Fogh Rasmussen, NATO Secretary relationship to our UK neighbours. In a significant General. Photo: Una Kelly, YMIP. announcement, Irish Defence Minister Alan Shatter said Ireland and Britain will send a joint deployment of troops on the situation in Mali. In a press conference after the to war-torn Mali as part of an EU training mission. While meeting, Mr Shatter said there had been constructive Irish and British defence forces have previously co- engagement on all issues and that there was broad operated with each other on UN peacekeeping missions, support and recognition for the French effort in Mali. He this is the first time the two countries will work together stated that the French intervention was seen as being to produce a joint task force. Britain will lead the eight protective of Europe. He emphasised that defence is of Irish soldiers and 18 British soldiers under the First Royal importance to everyone in Europe, citing the potential Irish Regiment, which could see troops from both sides of threat of suspected chemical weapons presently in Syria the border working together for the first time. coming in to the wrong hands.

The announcement, which due to troubled history would Significant visitors at this Irish EU Presidency event were have been unthinkable until recently, was described NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and as “historic” by Mr Shatter, particularly after the visit UN peacekeeping representatives. The first official of Queen Elizabeth II to Ireland two years ago. “It visit of a NATO Secretary General to Ireland was seen is yet another indicator of the total normalisation of as an effort to enhance cooperation between NATO relationships between all of us on this island, the island and the EU. NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) of Ireland, and between this State and the United is a military alliance of countries and Ireland, although Kingdom,” Mr Shatter said. “In that sense it is a historic not an official member, conducts its relations with step and provides a tangible manifestation of the very the organisation through the Partnership for Peace positive relationship and the mutual respect that now framework, which Ireland joined in 1999. NATO and exists between our countries”. Ireland and Britain may Ireland actively cooperate on humanitarian, rescue, join forces for future UN mandated missions, however, peacekeeping and crisis management, and Irish troops Mr Shatter added: “If you’re asking me is Ireland and the have been a part of missions in Kosovo, Bosnia and UK going to declare war on someone or invade I can tell Afghanistan. At the event, Mr Rasmussen welcomed you no, that’s not part of the agenda.” Ireland to further enhance its cooperation with NATO in the future as, he stated, further cooperation is of benefit The EU training mission to Mali aims to boost the to both parties in times of crisis, and acknowledged country’s defence forces and also help to protect civilian Ireland’s history of contribution to peacekeeping. and human rights. The mission will be made up of about 500 personnel in total, including 200 instructors. It will UN peacekeeping representatives also made a be deployed by mid-March and is expected to last for presentation at the meeting of EU defence ministers, 15 months. The present conflict in Mali began in March and under discussions of how there can be greater 2012, when the president was ousted in a military coup, engagement between the EU and UN, broad consensus leaving a battle for power among several forces. One was reached that the EU must do the utmost to ensure of these forces has been hijacked by Islamist extremists the relationship is more “operational”. who have since taken control in much of the country. In January 2013, France responded to a call for foreign Although no decisions from the informal meeting are aid by sending 4,000 French troops to intervene and binding or enforceable, it was clear that the intention push back extremists. France now hopes for an African for greater commitment to common defence policies peacekeeping force to take over. is on the agenda for the EU. Although there has been progress, it was stated that there has also been The domestic announcement of co-operation between complacency in some areas. As for Ireland, that most Irish and British Defence forces may have somewhat geographically detached of EU states, it is apparent that over-shadowed the other items on the agenda of the EU the Irish Presidency will be used to strengthen our links to defence ministers meeting, one of which was a discussion the EU and the wider world.

24 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

COFACE & ICA Conference Day 1: “Vulnerable Families – What Can Europe Do?” Aine O’Doherty

The Sixth European Families Conference was held in Dublin on 4 and 5 February 2013. Organised by the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA) and the Confederation of Family Organisations in the Ireland’s Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, European Union (COFACE), the conference focused on Frances Fitzgerald TD, at the Vulnerable Families vulnerable families and what the European Union can Conference. Photo: Aine O’Doherty, YMIP. do for them. promotes the ‘traditional’ family, and argues against Delegates travelled from all over Europe for the event, homosexual and promiscuous heterosexual behaviour, including Portugal, Belgium and Bulgaria, to reflect to the event. on Europe’s current position is in relation to these families, and the trends which have emerged since the This was not the view of all the delegates at the financial crisis. conference; during the second plenary session, delegates were given up to date presentations with The delegates were welcomed by Liz Wall, the statistics about vulnerable families across the EU. This President of the ICA, and Annemie Drieskens, included single parent families, and other types of President of COFACE. They were then treated to ‘non-traditional’ families. keynote speeches by Ireland’s Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald; Juan Menéndez- Child poverty was one of a number of serious issues Valdés, Director of Eurofound (the European tackled on the day, along with single parent families Foundation for the Improvement of Living and and the roles of carers. Bea Cantillon, a lecturer from Working Conditions – an EU body based in Dublin); the Sociology Department in Antwerp University and Julius op de Beke of the European Commission. focused on child poverty, pointed out that “Child poverty in most countries is at a higher level than Ireland is considered a model for all other EU member overall poverty.” The presentation included steps states in terms of its work for and support of the that could be taken by the EU to help alleviate child family, and Ms Drieskens, outlined her organisation’s poverty in member states, and imbalances in policy high expectations for the Irish Presidency: “European frameworks. countries recognise families as important social institutions, and the majority of the countries have Speaking about the creation of the Ministry for adopted different policy measures to support families. Children and Youth Affairs, Minister Fitzgerald said, COFACE always says that families need RST – “I think it’s very important because we can hear from Resources, Services and Time. the conference here how important and the huge contribution that working effectively, particularly with In her speech, Minister Fitzgerald championed the the more vulnerable children and families can make. policy of early intervention, saying “The State must The importance of co-ordinating services at a high endeavour to provide a level of support that helps level, the importance of focus in this area, budget parents to create a safe and caring environment for in this area makes a huge difference, so for example their children. Of course early intervention is key. There holding the children’s referendum, being in cabinet is a delicate balance to be got between the provision was very important; so I think it’s about being at the of ongoing support to a family, and the ultimate state table and influencing others and making sure that this of intervening to remove a child from a situation which agenda is part of the agenda of the government. So it is detrimental to their safety and welfare.” gives an opportunity to do that.”

There was an opportunity for questions from the floor The second day of the Conference focuses on for the panel in the first plenary session. Delegates breakout sessions, which will see delegates making from the UK, Slovakia and Croatia asked questions, their voices heard and putting forward propositions. with the Croatian delegate speaking about his With such a wide range of delegates from many organisation, the Family Centre in Zagreb. He had different backgrounds, it is sure to be a day full of brought some literature about his organisation, which interesting debate.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 25 THE REPORTING

Céad Míle Fáilte to Ireland Clodagh Garry

Ensuring a successful Presidency of the Council of the EU is not easy. We must be gracious, impartial hosts and ensure Europe’s agenda for this term is completed. We must think of the greater good of the Council, and Europe. Otherwise, we risk losing credibility, something we cannot afford doing at the moment. However, we are Irish as well as European and the success of Ireland’s Presidency is largely dependent on Ireland doing what it does best, that is being Irish. Playing such an important role for six months gives Ireland the opportunity to showcase everything that is unique and positive about this country. We are renowned worldwide for our Céad Míle Fáilte, but can Ireland’s Presidency include more of the Irish language rather than just those famous three words?

Having attended the Citizens’ Dialogue in Dublin City Hall on 10 January, and the joint EESC-EM Ireland conference Ireland 40 Years On: The Benefits, Opportunities and Challenges of EU Membership on 1 February, as a Gaeilgeoir I’m not so sure. These events, like all during the Presidency, are of course European events. The EU has 23 official languages and as hosts we have to represent the entire EU and not just ourselves. At the conference in Castleknock last Friday, the main spoken language was English, although delegates were also able to address the room in French, German and Spanish. Simultaneous interpretation was offered into English, French, German and Spanish. All around me I saw signs, leaflets and documents in English. The event’s agenda was also offered in different languages. Nowhere did I see Gaeilge. And yet, if I lived outside Ireland and visited the official website of the Presidency –www. eu2013.ie – I would think Irish was just as important as English in Ireland.

The website is available in full in English, Irish, French and German. The ‘About Ireland’ section gives information on the Irish language – its history, the reasons behind its decline, and the government’s efforts to maintain and promote the language. The website also says that 40% of Irish people speak some Irish and refers to the 20-year strategy to increase the number of daily Irish speakers. One great aspect of this section is that it also gives some useful examples of Irish for visitors, such as slán, céad míle fáilte, and sláinte. It also explains a number other words which they might hear while in Ireland, such as Seanad, Oireachtas, and gardaí. This inclusion of Irish in the official Presidency website is to be welcomed, and yet I don’t feel these efforts are translating on the ground.

So far in my experience I have heard more visitors speaking Irish than I have natives. The President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, and the President of Group III of the European Economic and Social Committee, Luca Jahier, both began their addresses with Irish. It is clear that others recognise our individuality as a nation and are respectful of that. The Presidency is a time to boost and promote our image, and the Irish language is a part of that image. Other European countries are proud of their language and show off their individuality; we should do the same.

I don’t expect the Presidency to be hosted through Irish. This Presidency is about Europe as a community and English is the most widely known foreign language in the EU. I believe that Ireland can be inclusive and showcase our native language while using English to communicate with our fellow Europeans. For example. Bord Bia who sponsored the meals at Ireland 40 Years On did this with our food. Our Visitors didn’t need telling about the quality of our food, they could taste it. There are many Irish-language cultural events taking place throughout the six-month term of the Presidency. These include Stair na gCeilteach in Galway, which showcases the art of the Gaeltacht areas, and Guthanna na nOileán in Cork, focusing on the traditional singing of the Gaeltachtaí. These events are taking place outside Dublin, which will host the vast majority of the 1,200 Presidency meetings, but it’s worth showing more of our country and heritage. Let them taste our culture and history rather than hear about it.

Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU is a wonderful opportunity to show Europe and the World our individuality and one that won’t come around again for at least 14 years. Let’s use it wisely and make the most of it. Is féidir linn.

26 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Céad Míle Fáilte Go hÉirinn Clodagh Garry

Níl sé éasca Uachtaránacht ar Chomhairle an Aontais Eorpaigh rathúil a bhaint amach. Caithfimid a bheith neamhchlaonta agus garaíocht a dhéanamh dár gcuid comhpháirtithe san Eoraip. Caithfimid a chinntiú go bhfuil na spriocanna don téarma seo bainte amach. Ba chóir dúinn a bheith ag smaoineamh ar an gComhairle ina iomlán. Gan iad seo a dhéanamh caillfimid ár gcuid inchreidteacht, rud nach bhuilfimid in ann a cur i mbaol ag an am seo. Mar sin féin, is Éireannaigh muid chomh maith le hEorpaigh. Tá rathúlacht an uachtaránacht ag brath ar Éirinn ag déanamh an rud a dhéanann sí is fearr, é sin a bheith Éireannach. Tugann óstach ócáid chomh mór seo an deis dúinn a léiriú gach rud a bhfuil go maith agus uathúil mar gheall ar an tír seo. Tá cáil againn ar fud na cruinne dár gCéad Míle Fáilte, ach an bhfuil an uachtaránacht in ann aon rud níos mó a dhéanamh don Ghaeilge seachas na trí fhocail cháiliúil sin?

Tar éis a bheith ag an ‘Citizens’ Dialogue’ i halla na cathrach, Baile Átha Cliath, agus ag ‘Ireland 40 years on’ in óstán Caisleán Cnucha, mar Ghaeilgeoir níl mé ró cinnte. Tá na himeachtaí seo Eorpach cosúil le gach ceann a bheas ar siúl i rith an uachtaránachta. Tá 23 teanga oifigiúil san Eoraip, agus mar óstaigh caithfimid a bheith inár n-ionadaí don Eoraip ar fad agus ní hamháin dúinn féin. An Aoine seo caite i gCaisleán Cnucha, bhí toscairí in ann Fraincis, Spáinnis agus Gearmáinis a labhairt agus bhí Béarla an príomh teanga don lae. Bhí aistriúcháin le fáil i mBéarla, Fraincis, Spáinnis agus Gearmáinis. Ar fud na háite bhí mé in ann doiciméid, comharthaí agus dáileáin as Béarla. Bhí clár an lae le fáil i dteangacha eile chomh maith. Ní fhaca mé an Ghaeilge in aon áit. Cheap go raibh sé seo suimiúil mar dá chonaigh mé taobh amuigh d’Éireann, ón suíomh idirlíon oifigiúil den uachtaránacht cheapfainn go bhfuil an stádas céanna ag an nGaeilge is atá ag an Béarla in Éirinn.

Tá leagan iomlán de eu2013.ie le fáil i nGaeilge, Fraincis agus Gearmáinais. Ar an suíomh faoi ‘I dtaobh na hÉireann’ tá mír ann mar gheall ar an nGaeilge. Déanann sé tagairt dá stair, na cúiseanna taobh thiar den mheath agus na hiarrachtaí a rinne an rialtas chun an teanga a chaomhnú agus a fhorbairt. Deir an suíomh go bhfuil leibhéal éigin de Ghaeilge ag 40% den tír agus déanann sé tagairt den straitéis fiche bliana atá ag an rialtas. Rud maith faoin mír seo ná tugann siad samplaí d’fhocail a bheadh úsáideach do chuairteoirí nuair atá siad anseo mar shampla slán, céad míle fáilte, and sláinte. Míníonn siad focail a d’fhéadfadh siad a chloisteáil nuair atá siad in Éirinn seanad, oireachtas, gardaí srl. Tugaim fáilte chuig na hiarrachtaí atá ar an suíomh seo ach ní cheapann go bhfuil na hiarrachtaí ag aistriú ar an talamh.

Go dtí seo i mo thaithí féin, tá níos mó Ghaeilge cloiste agam ó chuairteoirí ná mar atá agam ó Éireannaigh. Thosaigh uachtarán coimisiún na hEorpa José Manuel Borroso agus Luca Jahier uachtarán grúpa 3 den Choiste Eacnamaíochta agus Sóisialta na hEorpa aithisc le Gaeilge. Is léir go n-aithníonn daoine eile ár indibhiúlacht agus go bhfuil meas acu air. Is é seans dúinn é seo chun ár íomhá a neartú agus a cur chun cinn. Tá an teanga Ghaeilge mar chuid den íomhá sin. Bíonn tíortha eile san Eoraip bhródúil as a gcuid teangacha féin agus taispeánann siad a hindibhiúlacht. Ba chóir dúinn a bheith chomh maith.

Níl mé ag súil go mbeadh an uachtaránacht trí mheán na Gaeilge. Tá an uachtaránacht seo faoi phobal na hEorpa agus tá Béarla an teanga iasachta is coitianta a bhfuil ar eolas ag daoine. Creidim go bhfuilimid in ann gach duine a thógáil san áireamh agus ár dteanga féin a thaispeáint ag an am cheana. Mar Shampla rinne Bord Bia urraíocht ar an mbia an Aoine seo caite i gCaisleán Cnucha agus ní raibh ar aon duine a rá chuig ár gcuairteoirí cé chomh maith is a raibh ár gcuid bia, bhí siad in ann a bhlaiseadh. Is iomaí imeacht a bhfuil ar shiúil i rith na uachtaránachta. Ina measc tá Stair na gCeilteach i nGaillimh ag taispeáint ealaíon na Gaeltachtaí agus Guthanna na nOileán, i gCorcaigh a dhíriú ar canadh traidisiúnta na Gaeltachtaí. Tá na himeachtaí seo taobh amuigh Baile Átha Cliath, an áit ina bhfuil an chuid is mó de na 1,200 cruinniú ar shiúl ach b’fiú dúinn níos mó d’ár gcultúr agus oidhreacht a léiriú. Ba chóir dúinn an deis a thabhairt dóibh chun ár gcultúr agus stair a bhlaiseadh in ionad a chloisteáil faoi.

Is deis iontach dúinn é seo nach dtiocfaidh timpeall arís do cheithre dhéag bhliana ar a laghad. Ba chóir dúinn é a úsáid i gceart agus an méid is mó go bhféidir linn a bhaint as a fháil. Is féidir linn.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 27 THE REPORTING

Meeting to end world hunger – dream or reality? Caithlin Corrigan

‘Think big thoughts. Can we dream of a world interconnected nature of economic where we have gotten rid of poverty and no one development with social and political issues goes to bed hungry? If we dare to dream... what such as democratisation, governance, poverty, would it take to get there?’ human rights, gender, armed conflict and the environment. These were the ‘big’ thoughts of Kristalina Georgina, EU Commissioner for International Ireland has always had a deep personal interest in Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis international development as a result of its history Response before she entered the Informal of famine, conflict and poverty. Experiencing Meeting of EU Development Cooperation the need and importance of foreign aid first- Ministers, held on the 11th and 12th of February hand means that contribution to international in Dublin Castle. But did the ministers dare to development is central to Irish foreign policy, with dream on the day? a strong focus on the fight against poverty and hunger and the promotion of peace, justice and The Irish Presidency, together with Catherine respect for human rights. Ashton, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, hosted this informal The issues highlighted in the MDGs are highly meeting in order to provide an opportunity for complex, with no overnight solutions. Individually, substantive discussion on major development and or even at a national level, many people may feel humanitarian issues. One of the main topics of that they would not be impacted by the successful discussion across the board was the Millennium delivery of the MDGs. But aside from the moral Development Goals (MDGs). dilemma in this argument, the fact is that as a global citizen, the issue of world hunger, poverty With the MDGs’ target date of 2015 fast and inequality affects every one of us. How can approaching, and the UN Special Event on the we expect the world economy to continue to MDGs and the G8 Summit in Fermanagh later this grow at an exponential rate, when 80% of the year, this meeting comes at a critical time in the world’s population lives in the poorest 20% of international development agenda. the countries, and the richest 20% of the world’s people share 84% of the world’s wealth? What are the MDGs? In 2000, 189 nations made a promise to free Are the MDGs realistic or just a dream? people from extreme poverty at a United Nations A vast range of actors have come together to General Assembly. This pledge turned into the assist in delivering the MDGs, from UN agencies, eight MDGs, with 21 targets and 60 indicators, to local bodies, national governments, Non- which when combined have the overarching aim of Governmental Organisations and Aid Agencies. halving world poverty by 2015: However, despite all the best rhetoric, joint action • Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger plans and campaigns (remember Make Poverty • Achieve universal primary education History?), it is looking highly unlikely that the • Promote gender equality and empower MDGs will be achieved by 2015. women • Reduce child mortality The MDGs have generated much ideological, • Improve maternal health theoretical and practical debate. There have been • Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases many positive developments. The MDGs have • Ensure environmental sustainability brought the issue of international development to • Develop a global partnership for development the forefront of many political agendas, with the timeframe allowing lobbyists to exert pressure. As a nation why should we care? They also recognise the multi-dimensional nature These goals clearly demonstrate the of poverty, and have made these highly complex

28 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Every Conference. Ever. Eoin Kelleher

issues easier to follow and understand. Also, according to The Lancet Commission (2010), the MDGs have encouraged global political consensus, provided a focus for advocacy, improved the targeting and flow of aid, and improved the monitoring of development projects.

But the list of criticisms is longer and includes claims that they are too ‘one-size-fits-all’, are unrealistically ambitious for many of the world’s poorest countries, pay too little attention to inequality or empowerment of the poor, and many parameters are poorly specified and measured.

Aid agencies working with some of the poorest people in the world whom the MDGs are meant to help and protect are looking on with growing (just to avoid repeating the word) scepticism. It is looking increasingly likely that although some progress had been made, most of the targets are unfortunately unlikely to be met. As Oxfam put it in 2010, ‘progress is slow and many hard won achievements have been undone after the global food, fuel and economic crisis’ and unless rescued, we are likely to face the greatest collective “Now, at the end of Ireland’s successful failure of history.’ Presidency of the Council of the European It may be time for Bob Geldof to write another song… Union, I know a lot more about the workings of the EU and I have much more insight into modern journalism. But I still know precious little about cartoons.” Eoin Kelleher

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 29 THE REPORTING

Toodaloo Austerity – Close the door on your way out! Social Investment Package to be our Salvation?

Mary Browne Foundation Forum 2013: Social and employment policies for a fair and competitive Europe. Photo: Mary Browne, YMIP.

Valentine’s Day not only marked former European Commissioner which is due to be presented by the day of lovers this year, but for Employment, Social Affairs the European Commission on the also the beginning of a two- and Equal Opportunities, Anna 20th of February, is a proposed day discussion on social and Diamantopoulou; General initiative which will hopefully employment policies for a Secretary of the European Trade result in Member States getting fair and competitive Europe. Union Confederation, Bernadette to use their social budgets The Foundation Forum 2013, Ségol; Managing Director of more efficiently, promoting best coordinated by Eurofound, at European and International Affairs, practices while also providing Dublin Castle on the 14th and Renate Hornung-Draus; President guidance on social investment. 15th of February as a means of of the European Economic and Quite a lot of discussion affording key opinion-formers and Social Committee, Staffan Nilsson; focused on this notion of ‘social decision-makers an opportunity to Professor Emeritus of Political investment’, leading attendees at deliberate a number of important Economy, Günther Schmid; the Forum to ask for clarification. social policy issues facing Member journalist Olivia O’ Leary; Adviser In essence, ‘social investment’ States. An EU body, Eurofound at the Bureau of European Policy relates to the strengthening of – or the European Foundation for Advisers, Agnès Hubert; MEP peoples’ capacities. the Improvement of Living and Emer Costello; Managing Director Working Conditions – was set of Policy Research, Matthew The proposed ‘Social Investment up to contribute to the planning Robinson; Communications Package’ will endeavour to help and design of better living and Director and Chairman of the prepare people for future possible working conditions in Europe. Global Advisory Board, Bob Lee; risks rather than focusing on how Eurofound encouraged attendants Minister of State with Special to repair the damage. It is hoped at the Forum to actively contribute Responsibility for European Affairs, that this will prevent any future to proceedings by scheduling Lucinda Creighton TD; as well as economic problems, predicting ‘breakout sessions’ at which Jerzy Ciechanski and Erika Mezger potential disasters and evaluating questions could be asked and from Eurofound. the most effective means of opinions could be offered. It was dealing with them. hoped that during panel sessions, plenary debates and through the use of interactive technologies, “What I do intend to communicate is that by participants would be able to identify key issues and formulate investing in our citizens – to develop their skills potential solutions to aid the policy-making process. and capabilities and ensure their adequate livelihoods – we will be better equipped to The main themes that were tackled at Friday’s discussions emerge out of the crisis stronger, more cohesive, included social investment acting and more competitive in the long run”. as a way out of the crisis, inclusive growth and the idea of Europe (László Andor; Director-General of the International being run as a ‘business’. Labour Organisation)

In attendance were Commissioner As mentioned before, one of the The main areas the package will for Employment, Social Affairs and themes of Friday’s discussions work towards include childcare, Inclusion, László Andor; Director- was how social investment could education, training, active labour General of the International Labour mark the bright light at the end market policies, housing support, Organisation, Guy Ryder; former of the tunnel for the current crisis. rehabilitation and health services – Greek Government Minister and The ‘Social Investment Package’, policies which are likely to impact

30 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Data Protection Reforms – where can we strike the balance between fostering growth and protecting citizens? Marie Dromey

OPINION: One of the key priorities for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union is to address the issue of Data Protection in Europe. Nowadays we are living in a previously unimaginable world which is all reliant on a constant connection to the Internet. However, this too brings its own concerns. For instance, the laws in place to protect EU citizens and their personal data date back to 1995. Furthermore, individual countries are free to implement these laws as they see fit. As a result, disparate levels of protection are found across Europe, depending on where an individual lives and where goods or services are purchased. However, for the past year, reforms to the Data Protection Directive have been put through their Up to date gadget offered to paces. These reforms aim to improve an individual’s control over their own attendees at the conference. data, including the “right to be forgotten”, which gives people the ability to Photo: Mary Browne, YMIP. remove their information from the Internet if they so wish. citizens during their lifetime. However, while it is very important that citizens’ rights are protected, it is also important to remember that we must encourage the growth of the I must admit that hearing the plan digital economy. In fact, as part of Europe2020, the Digital Agenda for for this package was ultimately Europe was set down which not only recognised the massive potential uplifting. It seems that for ages of the digital economy but also endeavours to further it and encourage now all finances have been businesses and growth, while also enabling European citizens and pumped back into bailing out the businesses to get the most out of digital technologies. banks leaving citizens questioning why they are being taxed so So, are we at something of an impasse? It seems as if our goals of heavily. This package shines as protecting citizens and their data, while also encouraging businesses to a beacon of light in terms of us develop and grow, may contradict each other. Giant social networking getting to see a return on the website, Facebook, has been one of the strongest critics of the proposed crippling taxes and cuts. The reforms to the Data Protection Directive. They claim that some of the promise is that funding will be reforms are unreasonable and unrealistic. However, given that their entire pumped into areas that really business model is based on individuals sharing data, and hence directing impact the ordinary Joe Soap advertisements based on said shared data, it’s hardly a surprise that the as opposed to being poured reforms are met with reproach. down the drain as we watch on longingly. It has been said that political agreement on the reforms is due by the end of the Irish Presidency. However, even then, it would take a further two It has to be mentioned that years before changes came into effect. Given the fact that it’s practically Eurofound did an excellent job impossible to breathe without leaving some sort of digital footprint, are we organising this event, equipping supposed to accept a two-year wait? Two years in which major companies all attendees with headsets run like Facebook, Google, and Twitter (all of whom have Ireland-based by translators as well as voting headquarters) may find it more and more difficult to remain in Europe, or gadgets, which were admittedly simply less profitable to do so. left to the side on the advice of journalist Olivia O’ Leary. The Personally, I welcome these reforms. I want to be able to delete my organisation proved successful in information from Facebook, and I want to know that my rights are marketing our beautiful country protected regardless of where a business may be located. Maybe one day I to external delegates by hosting will want to delete my Facebook account and be safe in the knowledge that the event in the beautiful Dublin my information and data isn’t still “out there”. However, whether or not that Castle and by acting out our will result in the economic boost, as well as employment boost, that we’ve stereotypical role as a welcoming been promised, remains to be seen. nation, offering all attendees tours around the age-old building.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 31 THE REPORTING

Historic milestones set in Irish foreign affairs and defence policies during Irish EU Presidency 2013 Blaine Gaffney

Wednesday 13th of February was a available to participate in future UN EU Defence Ministers. day of big announcements at Dublin peacekeeping missions which will Photo: Una Kelly, YMIP. Castle in terms of both European occur throughout the world. and Irish defence policy strategies and announcements regarding Irish However, the Irish EU Presidency between our countries”. Defence Forces personnel. The event was somewhat overshadowed historic venue played host to the by domestic news from the Irish The EUTM Mali mission will last Informal Meeting of EU Defence Defence Minister Alan Shatter. The fifteen months and will commence Ministers, which was attended Minister announced that Ireland is in mid-March. The Irish-UK task by European Defence Ministers, to contribute approximately eight force will train the Malian army’s United Nations peacekeeping soldiers to the 200 strong European Infantry Battalions, their officers representatives and a significant first Union Training Mission (EUTM) in and non-commissioned officers visit to Ireland by a NATO Secretary the troubled African country, Mali. (NCO’s) in Southern Mali. The Irish General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen. Significant about this announcement deployment will not engage in battle The visit to Ireland by the NATO was the revelation that these Irish operations against jihadists in the Secretary General was sized to soldiers will be deployed as part North of Mali. The Irish-UK soldiers enhance further co-operation of a joint task force together with will be under the command of a between NATO and European 18 members of the UK’s Royal French commander for the period states both inside and outside of Irish Regiment. Amazingly, Irish of the mission. Overall, the broad the NATO umbrella. At the event, soldiers from different armies and consensus arising from the meeting Mr Rasmussen welcomed Ireland to from both sides of the Irish border in Dublin was that this mission in Mali further enhance its cooperation with could be working together during will impact greatly on the prevention NATO in the future as, he stated, this mission. Such an occurrence of terrorism in the region and further co-operation is of benefit seemed unthinkable not so long ago safeguard Europe and its citizens in to both parties in times of crisis. He considering our troubled history with the future. This role Ireland’s defence also acknowledged Ireland’s proud the UK. forces will play in the Mali mission history of peacekeeping in countries and the high accord with which the such as Lebanon and Congo, and This decision to collaborate the Irish Presidency has placed on the the ultimate sacrifices paid by many two armed forces is the first of creation of this mission is something Irish soldiers in obtaining peace its kind in this particular format. Irish citizens should take pride in. throughout the world. However, there have been strong links between the two armies in So, in an interesting week for Irish Over the course of the day, the the past considering the many Foreign Affairs and the Irish Defence Ministers discussed a range of interactions they have had in the Department, which started with issues in three separate working field of UN peacekeeping. This Minister Lucinda Creighton stating sessions. The key areas of discussion decision was made by the two Ireland’s position on neutrality as being the upcoming European defence ministers of the UK and being narcissistic, followed by a first Council on Defence; the situation Ireland because it increases the visit to Ireland by a NATO Secretary in Mali; piracy in the Horn of Africa deployment capabilities between the General, and the subsequent and how to combat it; and the two forces and it also enhances the decision to join up with armed forces increased partnerships between continuing co-operation between the form the UK, one can clearly see a the EU and the United Nations. two nations in the areas of security systemic shift towards a common The significant agreement reached and peacekeeping. Minister Shatter EU defence and security policy from during these meetings was the stated “I believe that the provision the Irish government. However, we renewal of EU Defence Ministers’ of a joint UK/Ireland contingent is can also see that the Irish Presidency overall commitment to support UN another step in the normalisation of is treating EU security and defence peacekeeping missions in areas other relations between our two countries. as one of its key objects. This than funding in the future. With In that sense it is a historic step and realisation is a somewhat welcome the withdrawal of NATO and EU provides a tangible manifestation relief from the constant discussions soldiers from Afghanistan in 2014, of the very positive relationship and involving the Irish economy, banks it is hoped more EU soldiers will be the mutual respect that now exists and growth in our GDP.

32 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

MARCH 2013

A student perspective on an Education Conference Isabella De Luca

“An Irish Presidency Conference on Quality a pen! A long list of the delegates in attendance.... Assurance in Qualifications Frameworks took place The conference programme… And a summary of the in Dublin Castle on Tuesday and Wednesday, March main themes, topics and expected conclusions of the 12 and 13. Over 150 delegates from more than day... Well, I thought, I could almost go home now 35 countries met to discuss a wide range of issues and write my report from all this. relating to education…” At the tea break I gave myself the mission of tracking So began my report on the conference that I down the other girl from YMIP who was assigned attended this month as part of Youth Media and the to the event. I patted down my knitted top and Irish Presidency. jeggings uncomfortably; it had seemed smart that morning to dress for the weather. Nobody else You can find all the logistical details in that article, but looked like they’d had to get up at 6am. Or maybe for my opinion piece this month, I’m going to write I’m the only one who has yet to master the art of what I really thought of the whole thing, from the perfect grooming even when sleep deprived. I found perspective of an ordinary Irish student. my fellow youth journalist and, with a sigh of relief, subtly moved over to her table. It was nice to have I got up at 6.00am to get the train from Galway to company in a room full of established names. Dublin. It was delayed an hour, due to the snow that day and/or an electrical problem outside Athenry. I The conference itself was nearly the same as the was half asleep when I heard the announcement, others I’ve attended as part of the Irish Presidency. so I can’t remember which, if either, was the case. I A lot of men (and only one or two women) spoke arrived in Dublin at 9.30am and half-ran to Dame from the podium, using big words that felt very far Street, where two lovely City Hall staff members removed from what qualifications mean to me as directed me to Dublin Castle. I handed my coat a student. Several speakers reinforced their belief into a posh, attended cloakroom and made my way that learners and teachers should be at the centre upstairs to St Patrick’s Hall, where the conference was of process (despite the lack of learners and teachers already underway. present). The man sitting in front of me picked his nose. So did the person next to him. We were all I did a double-take when I walked in the door. St treated to a sumptuous three course meal in the Patrick’s Hall is the grandest room of the State adjoining and almost as elaborately decorated Apartments. The high walls are lined with regal St George’s Hall. A lady asked me what I was artwork and giant chandeliers hang from the most doing there. ‘Students never have access to these significant painted ceiling in Ireland. In the past, conferences,’ she said, with a hint of derision. The the Hall has hosted Presidential Inaugurations and people at our table were genuinely shocked and the state dinner during Queen Elizabeth II’s visit impressed by mine and my companion’s insight to Ireland in 2011. But today it was the turn of the into the topic when it got down to the working Irish Presidency Conference on Quality Assurance in sessions. I dosed off slightly during a particularly Qualifications Frameworks. boring talk. And was mortified when I woke up to someone staring at me from across the way. I reached No, it isn’t any easier to say the seventeenth time for another complimentary mini-box of Butlers around. chocolates. And left fifteen minutes early so that I’d be able to find my way back to Heuston Station Half a dozen people turned around to look at me as before dark. I entered, so I hurried to take a seat at the back of the room. It was hard to catch up since they were I think I got a pretty good grasp of what the mid-session, so I looked through the conference pack conference was about, and the conclusions that were the woman at the desk downstairs had given me. reached. But it did seem like a lot of talking around Two notepads, always handy for a would-be writer… the meat of the subject. It definitely could have More free pens, great! If there’s one thing college has been done in a less lavish surrounding, with half the taught me it’s that you should never have to pay for number of delegates and in half the amount of time.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 33 THE REPORTING

An Open Letter to Nobody in Particular Carlynn McCarthy

Dear Mr/Ms/Mrs/You, I feel privileged to have access to these events, and I know My name is Carlynn McCarthy and I am a very tired 25-year old girl. I am that if used the right way, the physically tired because I have just finished a 12-hour shift. My legs are opportunity will do wonders for stiff, my back is aching and my feet are throbbing so hard it feels like my career. I’m probably not using my heart has literally fallen into my shoes. I am mentally tired because I it the right way, considering that spend a lot of my time asking myself, is this all there is? this article is a day late and I just announced that someone at the Was it worth four hard but wonderful years at college just to stand on conference was picking their the wrong side of the bar all night? I have a degree, yet I spend most nose. But I guess I’m just not the of my weekends wiping other people’s vomit off the floor. But mostly, type. Or haven’t learned how I am tired of defending my decision not to emigrate. I lived abroad for to play the role yet, and don’t three years and loved it, but in the end I wanted to come home, get a really intend to. Rather than try good job, find a nice apartment, and meet up with family and friends to work my head around all the whenever I felt like it. A humble yet impossible dream for me and many acronyms and key words being more like me. thrown around, I spent most of the day thinking about all the As a young(ish) Irish person all I seem to hear is: other people who should be there too, people who are directly “You should be over in Australia.” affected by the outcomes of these “You’re mad, there’s nothing for you here.” conventions. When there is an “I hear Canada is crying out for people.” outcome. I know people mean well, but why should I? I don’t know how much it cost the Irish government to host Why should I travel thousands of kilometres to a foreign country that the Conference on Quality in may or may not resent my presence there? Why should I leave my Qualifications Frameworks, but friends and family behind? Why can’t I find a job I enjoy, here, in a I can guess that if I did, all those country I love? representatives got in for free too. Sure, we want to make a “You’re young, you have to do it while you can, believe me, I know.” good impression on the European Cue conspiratorial wink. Commission, but aren’t we being Must experience trump youth every time? I’m young therefore someone paraded as the poster children else knows better? of working austerity? We’re not supposed to have the money for Unfortunately this isn’t just a barstool phenomenon. I feel like it happens this kind of thing, are we? at a national level too. The recession has taken its toll on everyone; the elderly, single mothers, people with special needs, medical Meanwhile, I can’t even afford the professionals, farmers, the list is endless. 45 euro registration fee for the Annual Congress of Psychology We’ve heard about the proposed CAP cuts and how they have been Students that’s being held in adjusted. Following the latest budget, we heard about the plight of low IADT next month. And I don’t income families, nurses and home owners, but can anyone remember think they’ll have complimentary any meaningful action taken to create good jobs for young people? Butlers chocolates. The percentage of unemployed young people here in Ireland is over 30%. Yet instead of hearing about endeavours to create lovely new jobs we are consistently told, ‘bear with us, we’ll pull through, the Irish have survived worse, etc. etc.’ Well, we have borne with you (looks around an almost empty room, tumbleweed floats past), and those of us who remain are frustrated.

34 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

We are one of the best educated generations this country has ever seen. Our parents, government and we, ourselves have ploughed money into shaping our minds for the future and now what? Those minds shuffle aimlessly forward in the local dole queue waiting to sign on and get their €144/€188 a week. If not, they are probably serving you your cappuccino in your local pub/café, listening to people tut-tutting them because they haven’t jetted off into the job-filled sunset.

I work in a bar and have colleagues who are fully qualified criminologists, microbiologists and lots of other types of ‘–ists’ as well. But rather than go out and unleash all this potential everyone told us we had, we worry about how frothy your milk is or about which cup is the skinny latte and which one is the regular. Don’t be fooled, reader; this is not the voice of an angry young person, it is the sigh of your frustrated and ever more discouraged ‘future’, a sigh which up until now (five years into the recession) seemed to fall on deaf ears.

Not anymore though; the large-scale unemployment of all of Europe’s young people means that Brussels and therefore the Irish government can no longer dole out rain checks or reign in the dole cheques. Something has to be done. And that something, apparently, is the Youth Employment Package.

The Youth Employment Package has three main strands:

• The Youth Guarantee – promises employment and/or training within four months of graduating or becoming unemployed. • European Quality Framework for Traineeships – aims to offer experience and learning on the job in fair working conditions. • European Alliance for Apprenticeships – hopes to improve the quality and quantity of apprenticeships on offer throughout Europe.

The main strand being touted by officials is The Youth Guarantee, which will pump €6 billion into European countries with youth unemployment levels above 25%. Sounds marvellous.

But will a certain percentage of the money be allocated solely to the creation of positions for young people? If not, it sounds eerily similar to our national JobBridge scheme, and to be honest, I don’t think I could take the disappointment. I really need someone to come through for me here, whether that someone be from the Dáil or the European Parliament I don’t really care.

JobBridge is a good but flawed programme, which has been abused in some parts as a source of cheap labour. Young people work full-time hours in order to earn €194 a week, which works out at €4.97 an hour. If you are one of the lucky ones, you pick up some new skills along the way; if not, you learn how to make a mean cup of tea and arrange stationary like a boss. But what do you do once your six to nine months are up? Get another barely paid internship? Shuffle a little more aimlessly up the dole queue? Join me in the hospitality industry?

While the government took care of other business, the majority of our best brains (and best friends) packed their bags and carried their fine educations to faraway lands. What about those of us who are still here? Are we mad to stay? Is it time to dust off the old suitcase or is there really hope for us on the domestic job front?

Yours hopefully, (*Yawn) Carlynn McCarthyyyyyyyyyyzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 35 THE REPORTING

Getting the third degree on skills lost in translation Irish Presidency conference: quality assurance in qualification frameworks Laura Mc Loughlin

What exactly do our qualifications mean and what It is very important that people are actively aware of sort of recognition, if any, do our qualifications get in the learning outcomes at all stages of their education. the workplace? This is something that needs to be addressed in primary and secondary education. This was a major issue raised at the Quality Assurance in Qualification Frameworks Conference, which Hopefully this will be implemented soon, through took place in Dublin Castle on Tuesday 12th and Europe’s aims to produce a framework that will Wednesday 13th of March. ensure that everyone receives quality qualifications that will actually benefit them throughout their lives. As it stands, the training and qualifications we achieve at all levels of education are not always This is necessary in order to ensure that attitudes trusted by employers both in Europe and beyond. towards education don’t completely disintegrate. Nice certificates and plaques to hang on our walls A good example of this highlighted at the conference should not be the only perceived outcome of our was the lack of recognition of teacher training education. qualifications outside of the country in which they are acquired. For example, a fully qualified teacher in This is why it is important to create and implement one European country is often required to undergo frameworks which will smooth the transition from further examination in order to secure employment in education to the workplace. another European country. However, a certain level of mutual understanding This indicates that there is either a lack of trust and measurement of qualification levels and skills in in the quality of education and training received Europe needs to be reached to achieve this. from country to country, or that there is a lack of understanding or difference in how skills are It is important that both the labour market and showcased. educational institutions don’t confine people to specific jobs and limit their potential for progression The Conference on Quality Assurance in Qualification in a Europe that is constantly evolving. Frameworks hoped to work towards bridging the gap between the skills gap and vacancies in Europe. It is important to remain open-minded to the skills acquired from broader forms of education. The extent of the skills gap was thoroughly discussed. One important point raised was the fact that Developing skills and learning is a lifelong process employers often fail to recognise the skills acquired that doesn’t cease when you get your qualifications through both formal and informal education. As a and land a job. If we are to learn anything from result people constantly have to justify their skills, these crises we must accurately answer the following training and qualifications. questions

However, a lack of understanding between countries • Are employers expecting too much from their and systems means that many skills go unnoticed. workers? Therefore capable candidates for suitable jobs often • Are some graduates and employment seekers miss out on opportunities. really too incompetent to fill vacancies in Europe? If so, how can we remedy this while the An even more pressing issue addressed highlighted learner is still in formal education? the fact that at all levels of education the learner • Are sought-after skills being lost in translation? often does not even recognise the skills that they have developed through their learning.

36 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Clingfilm Eoin Kelleher

“I was doing YMIP for fun. However, on arrival at my first event, I was taken aback. The discussion went straight over my head and I couldn’t help but feel completely out of place. Everyone was so serious. And I knew it was a big event, but no one told me Pat Kenny was going to be there! I wondered if I should just leave and let someone who knows about the EU take my place. Yet, I realised there are a lot more people who don’t know about the EU than those who do. And if I targetted those who don’t, not only would I have a much bigger audience, I’d also be able to do more informal reports.” Laura Gaynor

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 37 THE REPORTING

Youths meet Minister but leave their opinions at the door James Mulhall

Lucinda Creighton, Ireland’s Minister for European EU-wide initiative which has already been successfully Affairs, travelled to Northern Ireland to meet with a implemented in Austria and Finland. The EU has group of 16-25 year olds at Stormont’s Senate Chamber allocated €6 billion to the project in an effort to make last Wednesday. At the event, entitled Youth and Europe Europe more economically stable. – A Discussion, the Minister and her audience discussed a number of EU issues of concern to Northern Ireland’s Mobility in Europe was also a topic of discussion at young people. the event. The Minister lamented the lack of internal emigration within the EU, which she believes would While on paper the opportunity presented by this benefit the Union’s combined economy as well as the event sounds like a fantastic one, the day itself was a national economies of the Member States. She blamed slow burner. Most of the day’s questions were pre- this low mobility on a lack of emphasis on the importance submitted, meaning some of the most critical issues went of European languages in schools. undiscussed. The three themes of this dialogue were European youth employment and mobility, democracy One member of the audience asked a question on the in Europe, and the United States of Europe, and the tip of many tongues in the United Kingdom. Why does questions centred on these topics. Unfortunately, the stiff the UK’s youth have to pay for the debts of countries arrangement meant that precious few were able to ask such as Ireland, Greece and Portugal? The Minister took questions outside of those called on by Stormont staff. the question well, arguing that the UK has benefited enormously from access to the single market. She Perhaps the most exciting moment of the day was when acknowledged that it might seem unfair but reiterated one youth asked the Minister for her opinion on the that we are all in a union and outlined the need for extent to which the Irish language is currently used in “much more transparency” within the Union in future. Northern Ireland. As an example, he cited a number of Northern Ireland tourist attractions which do not offer On cross-border cooperation, Minister Creighton said the an information leaflet in Irish. The Minister tackled the last ten to fifteen years have been productive in building question respectably, but when the young man tried to on cross-border relations. Things are improving all the press her further, he was prevented from doing so by time, on both a political and community level, and a lot of a Stormont staff member. This was typical of the day; this is thanks to the younger generation, she believes. there was not much room for attendees to fully capitalise on the opportunity. That said, many valid and difficult The possible departure of the UK from the EU was questions were asked. also discussed at the event: “I think that would be very, very negative”, said Minister Creighton. She outlined Understandably, youth unemployment was the main the importance of being part of a strong and united concern of those present, with many questions focused political to compete in a global economy. However, she on the future for the Europe’s young people. Minister stated that a referendum on EU membership should be Creighton called on Europe’s youth to become engaged embraced in the UK as a chance for citizens to engage in politics on a national and European level. Any hopes and reflect on the benefits of their membership. of a quick solution to the current unemployment situation were dashed when the Minister said that although she Overall, the event had a dull, structured feel to it. Luckily, believes the crisis will have lessened by the time the the Minister answered her questions well, which helped current school generation have qualified, unemployment to engage the audience. It is clear from the events may still be a problem. Minster Creighton did praise of the day that young people need to become more the Youth Guarantee and the possibility this scheme engaged in politics to benefit from their EU membership. represents. Under the Youth Guarantee, should a young Unfortunately, the Minister may not have benefited from person be out of work for more than four months, further the discussion any more than the young people present, training or work experience will be provided. It is an as no clear opinions seemed to be aired on the day.

38 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Youth Inclusion and the EU – My Coffee Conversations Sorcha Cusack

OPINION: Youth inclusion has been a major focus of various EU conferences held here in Ireland over the past few months. Aware that the midway point of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU is fast approaching, I was curious to hear how our exposure to all things EU-related lately had affected young people’s perceptions of the EU.

Most of my questions were posed over coffee, Skype or Facebook. To my own surprise, I found that many young people are of the opinion that Europe is not doing enough to include us. The EU claims that incentivising young people to get involved within the EU, be it on a local, national or international level, is a priority, and yet the youth of Ireland feel the EU overseers aren’t showing themselves to be our representatives. They just don’t seem to appeal to young people.

From my various coffee trips, the image of the EU that emerged was a faceless, Brussels-based, bureaucratic institution; a utopian political system that is “squandering the future of young people in order to rescue banks with eye-watering mountains of debt”, according to one interviewee. Some young people I spoke to stated that they did not consider the EU in a negative light, but regardless felt that the EU does not matter to them and has absolutely no effect on their lives.

Young people in Ireland have access to an excellent education system and are more educated now than ever before. Even so, we learn very little about the EU in schools, which can only lead to us feeling disengaged and blaming the EU for our powerlessness in a climate of perennial problems, be it looming bankruptcy or the terminal decline of labour markets.

For this to change, young people need to claim back a certain element of responsibility. We need to realise that we are responsible for forging the destiny of the citizens of Europe, and play a crucial role in this development. Echoing the famous words of John F. Kennedy – “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country” – Brian Cullen, a second-year Law student in UCD, had this to say:

“Adopting such an attitude is the only way in which we can bridge the ever-widening gap between the citizens of Europe and the elite technocrats who dominate the political scene in Europe and are threatening to destroy the entire European project. Of course, this requires the EU to become more active in Ireland. Currently, the Commission and Parliament make inadequate efforts to promote the EU in Member States among young people, and Ireland is no different in this regard. Nelson Mandela once said “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” – there is no reason why this cannot apply to Europe.”

We, the youth of Ireland, need to call on Europe’s decision-makers – the Commission, national governments and the European Parliament – to invest increased resources in educating young people on the EU, the objectives of the European project, and its effects on Member States.

It seems to me that this could only bring about positive results. Not only would the EU be viewed in a more positive light by Ireland’s young people but more of us would also be committed to the European project.

If we are to solve the problems of today, we need the vision of younger generations; after all, Europe cannot function without Europeans committed to its cause. Rather than allowing us, the Irish youth, to become an angry movement of citizens protesting against a Europe without Europeans, we must be educated so that one day, we will no longer ask what Europe can do for us, rather ask what we can do for Europe – by doing Europe!

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 39 THE REPORTING

APRIL 2013

Sleepwalking off history’s cliff Ciara Galvin

“We must win the conversation on the growing their own food to survive. Because of the environment,” Al Gore said, at a conference about changing climate, subsistence farmers can no longer hunger, nutrition and climate justice in Dublin earlier rely on traditional knowledge of when to plant. this week. “We cannot keep sleepwalking towards Crops are destroyed by floods in some places, the edge of history’s cliff”. by droughts or ‘heat stress’ in others. This ruins farmers’ livelihoods and increases the likelihood of I was delighted when I heard Al Gore would be hunger and poor nutrition in developing countries speaking in Dublin and, even better, that I would be where most people grow their own food. there to hear it. A point that was made often at the conference, Al Gore’s eye-opening film ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ and not just by Al Gore, was that the people worst came out when I was in sixth year. We’d learned affected by climate change are often those who about global warming before in school, but mainly had the least to do with causing it. Most CO2 is just about saving the polar bears rather than the produced by us in the developed world – places like serious impacts of climate change. The film was Ireland, Australia, the United States and Europe – shocking, but it was also uplifting and inspired us to but the developing world suffers more. The term believe we could do something. ‘Climate Injustice’ is used to describe this huge and unjust imbalance. I learned to cycle. It wasn’t much, but it was a start. Climate change doesn’t just affect poorer countries Al Gore flew over from the States especially for the though. There have been several spikes in the price conference in Dublin Castle, held as part of Ireland’s of food globally in recent years, particularly in grain six-month Presidency of the Council of the EU. He which was badly affected by heat stress. This affects was probably the most famous speaker there. When food prices in places like Ireland where – even he arrived on the second day, everyone – attendees, though we have a lot of farming – most people buy media, staff – packed into the hall to hear him talk. rather than grow their own food.

He spoke about how hunger, nutrition and climate Food price spikes are likely to get worse if global change are closely linked. Humans are treating our warming continues. For every 1°C rise in the air like an open sewer, he said, pumping 90 million temperature of the atmosphere about 10% more tonnes of pollution into our atmosphere every day. crops fail, Al Gore pointed out. If we continue to

Mainly this is carbon dioxide (CO2), produced when treat our air like an open sewer, it is predicted that we use fossil fuels (petrol, oil, coal, gas) to power the temperature of the atmosphere will rise by our engines, central-heating or factories. CO2 traps about 4°C by 2050, which is only 37 years away. heat from the sun. Hot air holds more water, which causes massive downpours and floods in some part Add this to the predicted growth of the earth’s of the world. population to 9 billion by 2050, and it’s clear that if we do not come up with solutions to the problem Al Gore pointed to how rain patterns have changed, of climate change now, we could all be facing food including in Ireland and England where we’ve had shortages and malnutrition by the time we are our terrible flooding (and unusually heavy snow) in parent’s age. And yet, not nearly enough is being recent years. Near Al Gore’s own home they have done about it. had “once in a thousand year” floods happening far more often than once in a thousand years. I had the opportunity to attend a press conference with some of the event’s organisers after the main ‘Freak’ weather events are happening far more conference. I asked what, in their view, young often across the world too. This has the worst effect people could do. on subsistence farmers – people who depend on

40 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Ireland’s Bailout Loans Tarisai May Chidawanyika and Eoin Kelleher An Informal Meeting of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) took place in Dublin Castle on Friday 12th and Saturday 13th of April as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This event was chaired by Michael Noonan, Minister for Finance and Brendan Howlin, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.

Mary Robinson, a former The first day of the meeting saw an “important” step being taken, with the President of Ireland and one of loan maturities of Ireland and Portugal being extended by seven years under my favourite Irish political figures, the European Financial Stability Mechanism. This means in essence that we had perhaps the best answer. have been given a seven-year extension on the deadline by which we are She suggested we think of the required to repay our bailout loans. This extension was described by Minister issue in personal terms; how will Noonan as “another significant step on Ireland’s and Portugal’s journey to a climate change affect me and my full and sustainable return to the markets”. The extension will help Ireland future? What can I do? She will exit the IMF and save money on our loan repayments. This agreement will not be around in 2050, so she also “significantly reduce the amount of money that Ireland will need to thinks about how it will affect her borrow over the next decade or so”, according to Minister Noonan. four grandchildren, the eldest of whom is nine. Cartoon by Eoin Kelleher, YMIP.

Eamon Gilmore, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, said young people understand the issues more, and that we have a vested interest in making sure they are fixed, because it affects our futures more than the current generation of leaders. He suggested young people put their minds to innovating solutions to the issues. Joe Costello, Minister for Development, echoed Mary Robinson and Eamon Gilmore.

Personally, I have no intention of The agreement was finalised at the end of the first working day by the 27 EU falling off the edge of history’s Finance Ministers whose countries fund the bailout, and aims to stimulate the cliff. There is a lot we can do economies of Ireland and Portugal, and create financial stability in the EU. If on these issues. We can make Ireland’s economic and financial status improves, job creation will begin to sure that Ireland keeps helping rise and investors will have increased confidence in the Irish economy. tackle hunger and climate change at a global level, and The Cypriot bailout programme was also discussed, and its terms approved. convincing other countries The Cypriot bailout will now go to national parliaments for ratification. (and corporations, and anyone who has the funds) to do the Ireland was praised for its “steadfast implementation of the programme”, same. We can make changes and its “genuine commitment of reforms” was recognised at the meeting. in our own lives that reduce the Jeroen Dijsselbloem, Dutch Finance Minister and President of the Eurogroup (Eurozone finance ministers) said: “We congratulate the Irish authorities amount of CO2 production we are personally responsible for. for their continued steadfast implementation of the programme and their Most of all, I would say, we can successive steps taken towards a full return to market financing at the end and should listen to the people of the year”. He also added that “Ireland is a living example that adjustment worst affected, work with them, programmes do work provided there is a strong ownership and genuine and speak out about it whenever commitment to reforms”. possible. It is hoped that postponing Ireland’s bailout repayments will ensure Ireland’s smooth exit from the EU-IMF bailout programme and return to full markets, in turn leading to growth, jobs and stability for Ireland.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 41 THE REPORTING

Thatcher’s ghost will continue to haunt Britain and Ireland’s EU relations Andrew Coffman-Smith

OPINION: Europe may have been the issue that led to Baroness Thatcher’s political downfall in 1990, but 23 years later, in the wake of her recent death, it appears that the Iron Lady might just yet win in her fight against a federal Europe.

When news broke of the Baroness’ death, current Prime In its pursuit for more control, the modern nation-state is Minister David Cameron was on a European tour to naturally inclined to curb human freedom at every chance assure leaders that the UK will stay within a reformed it gets, but national governments are still accountable to EU when it comes to referendum time. Whether or the public to an extent that the EU could never be. not “brexit” happens, the sheer audacity of the EU continually negotiating the terms of membership with “We have not successfully rolled back the frontiers of the United Kingdom and, even worse leaving it up to the the state in Britain, only to see them re-imposed on a people to decide their country’s future, irks many across European level with a European super-state exercising a the Channel. new dominance from Brussels,” Thatcher said in her 1988 Bruges speech on Europe. British independence and European integration are simply not compatible. Either power ultimately resides in Two years later, in her final speech as Prime Minister, the peoples of Europe through their national parliaments she threw down the gauntlet on the subject of a federal or in the ministers and bankers. A more centralised Europe, recognising that “a single currency is about the Europe might be more efficient in governance than the politics of Europe; it is about a Federal Europe by the current mess but it certainly will not advance the cause back door.” During the speech, and much to the delight of democracy. Even if the commissioners are popularly of everyone, an MP jokingly interrupted that she would elected, the EU is too large and diverse to have a soon be the inaugural governor of the European Central common public sphere where ideas can be debated and Bank (ECB) which she was so against. Her response was decisions made between the European peoples. prophetic of things to come: “But if I were, there’d be no European Central Bank accountable to no one, least Thatcher’s death and the looming prospect of a UK of all to national parliaments. Because the point of that referendum on EU membership come at a time when kind of European Central Bank is no democracy; taking the Republic of Ireland holds the rotating, six-month powers away from every single parliament and being Presidency of the Council of the European Union. able to have a single currency and a monetary policy and an interest rate, which takes all political power away While the Republic’s Presidency helps facilitate Common from us.” Agriculture Policy reforms and free trade agreements with the USA, it begs the question to what extent do the Thatcher defined the UK’s relationship first with the Irish people themselves actually have a say in Europe? Is European Economic Community, then secured the it all merely rubberstamping decisions made in “Brussels” British rebate and when the EEC was superseded by the and “Berlin”? Unlike the British, the Irish people had at European Union, she drew the battle lines in the public least a minimal say on the Lisbon Treaty, by voting on it in opinion that has defined the debate of EU membership two referenda (the second time around, voting the way ever since. the EU wanted all along). It’s little wonder that when the time comes for the UK to Unlike the pro-EU reading of European history, which decide on the EU, the British people’s response might blames the wars of the last couple of centuries on very well echo Thatcher’s last speech as Prime Minister of conflicting nationalisms, Thatcher saw the major “No. No. No.” European conflicts as defined by attempts to unite the continent. It’s a very British understanding of European A UK exit will no doubt have lasting repercussions in history. To Thatcher, the EU is joining a long line of Ireland as it shares a land border with its closest trading continental, Charlemagne-wannabes stretching back partner. Ireland would have to choose between being to Napoleon. While Thatcher played a key role in a semi-isolated EU member state, sharing a concrete securing the Single European Act, she certainly was in border with a non-EU state or suffering whatever favour of a looser, free trade-based economic union and hardships would accompany leaving the EU in order to not the United States of Europe called for by Justice protect economic interests currently tied with the UK. If Commissioner Viviane Reding. the UK leaves, what would the legacy of the Republic’s Presidency be then?

42 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

MAY 2013

Sharpening a Blunt Instrument: Future Defence Policy of the European Union Aisling Twomey

A Defence Seminar was held in Dublin Castle on May 17th, 2013, the second to be organised as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The seminar allowed EU Member States the opportunity to consider defence collaboration, capability and adequacy in the midst of the current economic crisis. Member States also decided the agenda for the dedicated European Council discussion on security and defence at the December 2013 summit.

Discussions at the seminar centred on the administrative aspect of defence policy in the EU.

The Lisbon Treaty allows for a common Union defence to be initiated with the unanimous support of the EU member states. European Council President Herman Van Rompuy has stated that defence is not the daily business of European leaders, but that they do care about security and soldiers, jobs and budgets. Indeed, during this seminar, it became clear that the European Union is concerned for the background of defence, but not necessarily the actual combat nature of defence as the average EU citizen might see it.

In 2011, departing United States Defence Secretary, Robert Gates, criticised European defence policy, condemning defence cuts and stating that the US was tired of engaging in combat missions for those who refused to share the risks and costs.

European defence has undergone significant cuts in recent years, and while the debate about a common European Union army rages on, the seminar highlighted the fact that although the Union is entirely unprepared for the reality of a defence issue, the economic situation does not allow for the creation of a common force. Defence is being cut, not propped up.

Rini Goos, the Deputy Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency, spoke about the need for transparency and a collaborative approach to defence planning. Amidst multiple funding cuts, collaboration and cooperation between member states may be both the best and the only way to fulfil the capacity gaps highlighted by Secretary Gates two years ago.

Much conversation revolved around the requirement that defence technology be upgraded to the cutting edge, turning technological research into tangible innovation. One core idea emerging from this debate was the need to develop cooperative efforts between civilian and military units, and further to open the defence market to small and medium enterprises.

Overall, the seminar highlighted the need for efficiency, with debates focusing on the need to increase capacity and innovation, while including civilian enterprises in the industrial market, keeping businesses afloat, generating needed revenue and research, and tackling the core, and extremely significant, problems with the defence capacity of the European Union.

The seminar brought to the fore many ideas for sustainability, innovation and development, and recognised the effect of widespread budget cuts on both the current and future structure of defence for an entire continent. Currently, states decide defence policy and cooperation is far from perfect. Drops in funding in most EU states facing at least some austerity in the face of a global recession has led to an increasing need to make sure that defence capability is delivered - and that redundancies are addressed.

Far from specific but full of good ideas, the seminar provided a strong preliminary opportunity to understand the current state of defence policy - and to establish the ways to fix what is a damaged instrument.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 43 THE REPORTING

The Little Miss Fluoride Fighters from Mercy Youthreach Bully-Free. Students from Loreto Secondary School, Secondary School, Tralee, Co. Kerry. We Are Here For Ye! Letterkenny, Donegal, promoting books and reading. All photos by: Tricia Purcell, YMIP.

Finding innovative solutions to Ireland’s problems Tricia Purcell

The recent Young Social Innovators (YSI) annual showcase students was vast, and some 5,500 young people in Citywest, Dublin was a hive of creativity, positivity and undertook 350 projects to try and make a difference. social change. This was narrowed down to 60 presentations made at There was no sense of doom and gloom around this year’s event as well as a series of powerful posters job prospects, possible emigration and other issues which were on display for participants to view. affecting Ireland’s youth at the moment. Instead, there were thousands of young people working hard to It was an encouraging sight to see, these Transition Year provide solutions and make a difference, not just in their students who are, for the minute, unaffected by college community but also in the environment and world around fees, job uncertainty and a generally uncertain future. them. It is important that initiatives like YSI give a voice to these Promoting their project, “Bring Organ Donation into young people and encourage them to make a change Education”, were the overall winners at the Showcase, in their communities and schools now, so that they’ll Eureka Secondary School, in Kells, Co. Meath. continue to be engaged and active in trying to create change as they get older. The students were inspired to undertake this project by the tragic death of a teenager in the area, whose With youth unemployment now at 30.8% in Ireland and organs were donated after his death. Following a lengthy 23.9% in Europe, this is more important than ever. It discussion on the topic, the team agreed that there is not is these young people who will have to take steps to enough awareness and education around this issue for improve the economic situation they inherit. young people. While UNICEF’s recent Report Card 11 placed Ireland at They wanted to change this, not only in the short number ten for the best place in the world to be a child, term but also in the long term, and so they have I’m not sure this can be said for Ireland’s young adults been fundraising, educating fellow schoolmates, and and school-leavers. And that is who these TY students consulting with the Irish Kidney Association. They also will be in a few short years’ time. hope to further develop the initiative by carrying out a national survey of secondary school students. I’m happy to say, though, that the great presentations and solutions that these young social innovators came Runners up at the event were the John the Baptist up with left me feeling bright and positive about Ireland’s Community School from Hospital, Co. Limerick, whose future. It is just up to the older generation to continue to idea, “Click”, was on road safety and the importance of let them shine and have their voices heard, as well as the wearing your seatbelt. environment to continue to let them create change.

St Mary’s Secondary School, New Ross, Co. Wexford, As TD Simon Harris wrote in this weekend’s Sunday came in third place for their project aimed at helping the Independent, “Our generation is being asked to pay the local economy, entitled “Be Irish, buy Irish”. bills run up by our elders; the least we can expect is for our voice to be heard, our ideas embraced. We need to The range of issues tackled by the Transition Year harness our youth and put it to work for Ireland.”

44 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

Europe Day, VE Day and Michael-D Day – a different kind of Europe for tomorrow Richard Manton

“Today, citizens in Europe are threatened with an unconscious drift to disharmony, a loss of social cohesion, a recurrence of racism and an increasing deficit of democratic accountability in some decision making of an economic and fiscal kind.” – President Michael D. Higgins addressing the European Parliament.

OPINION: The days leading up to 9th May are rich in European history, be it the end of WWII 68 years ago, the Schuman Declaration 63 years ago or the ripples of Michael D. Higgins’ challenges to European economic policy in the European Parliament and The Financial Times. Today, Europe Day, therefore represents an opportunity to reflect on the direction of the ‘European Project’. In this reflection, we find that far from building ‘Social Europe’, the overriding task of the EU has been the promotion of the markets and the interests of big-business. Further, current EU economic policies are technocratically dismantling the gains made by post-war social movements in member states. The need for a different kind of Europe is urgent.

The Schuman Declaration The origin of the European Union and its predecessors lies in the rubble of World War II, which ended with VE Day on 8th May 1945 and Victory Day on 9th May 1945. The Schuman Declaration on the same day in 1950 proposed the founding of a European Coal and Steel Community to make war (between France and Germany in particular) “not merely unthinkable, but materially impossible”. The declaration (which is short and well worth reading) states: “Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity […] The solidarity in production thus established will make it plain that any war between France and Germany becomes not merely unthinkable, but materially impossible.”

The declaration did not raise the need for social solidarity nor does it invoke broad social values or the greats of European philosophy as later declarations and treaties would. The founding basis of European integration was an economic basis, namely solidarity in coal and steel production – what Higgins called an “economic space”. This basis continued through the ECSC, EEC, EC and EU, and as the years passed, the union expanded in size, remit and bureaucracy.

With the passing of each treaty, elements of economic governance were ceded from national parliaments to the Union, particularly to the indirectly elected Council and the appointed Commission, in an increasingly technocratic approach. Two stark examples of this are the installation of unelected technocrats in Italy and Greece (Monti and Papademos) and the ‘Two Pack’ common budgetary rules which require national parliaments to submit budgets to the Commission for analysis and assessment. This “increasing deficit of democratic accountability”, as described by President Higgins, is compounded by the lack of economic discourse even within the technocracy, let alone the population. A single economic hegemony, namely fiscal compact, has been enshrined in European law to the detriment of the populations of member states.

The European Single Economic Policy As well as operating a single market, the EU effectively operates a single economic policy akin to painting every fiscal situation with the same response brush. That policy is neoliberalism or fiscal compact or austerity or whatever you would like to call the move towards balanced budgets with low government spending and low levels of public debt attained on the basis of cuts to public spending and across-the-board taxes. The balanced budget rule, government deficit of less that 3% GDP, structural deficit of 0.5-1% GDP (depending on level of public debt) and public debt less than 60% GDP have been enshrined in EU law in the Maastricht, Lisbon and Fiscal Compact Treaties as well as the Six Pack and Two Pack. Member states cannot undertake large-scale stimulus packages by running a deficit or increasing public debt without facing penalties; Keynesianism is effectively illegal.

The ECB and Commission consistently refer to these rules in correspondence with member states and include them as stipulations in bailout programmes. This is despite the fact that this approach has been wholeheartedly discredited in the prolonged unemployment crisis, the Reinhart-Rogoff controversy, the

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 45 THE REPORTING

update to the Irish Stability Programme and by current and former IMF officials. This is what Higgins meant when he said: “The logistical strand of economics which today holds sway and stands as a hegemonic model of economic theory, not only in Europe, is the flaw of our times”

The pursuit of these failed policies has not only left European democracy in tatters, it has majorly undermined the idea of European cooperation and ‘social democracy’. Gains made by post-war social movements, e.g. national health services, are increasingly coming under attack as governments’ spending is slashed. Henning Meyer, editor of the Social Europe Journal, wrote: “it has become less and less clear what the Union actually stands for. The EU sanctioned austerity drive in particular has done significant damage. The economic and social decline induced by this policy has eroded the societal foundations of European integration and will continue to do so. For the unemployed young of today, the EU seems more like a threat rather than a promise for a better future. This has to change.”

Vincent Browne, writing in defence of Higgins’ interventions, wrote: “The free-market ethos of the EU, irrespective of its social cost, is a recipe for deepening inequality and the misery of the masses. The dwindling of democracy by the machinations of the domestic and Euro elites. These must be confronted and defeated here, in Brussels, Strasbourg, Frankfurt, Berlin and everywhere else in the EU.”

Tomorrow’s Europe Economist Paul Krugman was accused of being anti-European for his attack on the economic doctrine of Commissioner Ollie Rehn and the EU. To this he replied: “As it happens, I’m very much pro-European […] My problem isn’t with Europe, it’s with the bad policies that are ripping Europe apart, and with the officials who for whatever reason — intellectual inflexibility, ideological blinders, or, I suspect, sheer personal vanity, an unwillingness to admit that they were wrong — have refused to consider any modification of these policies despite years of disastrous results. And the attempt of these officials to wrap themselves in the mantle of European unity is truly contemptible.”

To criticise European economic policy is not to be anti-European. To call for an about-turn for the EU, or indeed an alternative union, is not anti-European. It is quite the opposite. If we acknowledge that current policies (and integration on the basis of these policies) are proving destructive, then it is incumbent on us to confront austerity and to argue for an alternative.

There is a need for significant state intervention in the economy to overcome the private investment strike and the chaos of the markets. In tandem with this, is needed a democratisation of political structures promoting genuine engagement with people.

To return to Higgins: “Instead of any discourse that might define the European Union as simply an economic space of contestation between the strong and the weak, our citizens yearn for the language of solidarity, the commitment to cohesion, for a generous inclusive rhetoric that is appropriate to an evolving political union that is anxious to reach a future of peace, prosperity, inclusion, and in a sustainable way.”

Tomorrow’s Europe will either be a continent ruled by technocracy at the behest of the markets or a continent determined by the economic and social needs of its people. It is only the conscious mobilisation of the masses of Europe that will decide its fate.

46 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE REPORTING

JUNE 2013 Institutionalising Love, not Hatred Aisling Twomey Does tea affect the voters? Laura Gaynor On Monday June 17th, in conjunction with the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, BeLonGTo Youth Services Over the course of her six months reporting hosted a Youth and Social Inclusion Conference at Croke Park. The for YMIP, Laura Gaynor noticed something event came in the wake of findings published by the European which was ever present at Irish Presidency Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), which surveyed 93,000 events – tea. She spoke to some of the LGBT people from across the European Union between April and key figures of the Presidency about their July 2012. preferences. You can 1watch the full video at www.europeanmovement.ie/ymip-does- The FRA report found that 47% of respondents had been tea-affect-the-voters/. discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months, and that 91% of respondents had heard or seen negative conduct against a schoolmate who was seen to be LGBT while they were in school. Two thirds of respondents, more than half from in every member state, reported that they avoided holding hands with a same-sex partner in public for fear of being assaulted.

The Croke Park Conference was supported by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, with Minister Frances Fitzgerald speaking at the beginning of the day. The Minister was “glad that social inclusion has been identified as a core part of the trio of Presidencies of the Council of the EU” and established her belief that as far as LGBT involvement goes, Ireland has “an unfinished democracy”.

Dr Geoffrey Shannon, Special Rapporteur for Child Protection, spoke during the keynote panel and pointed out the stark truth that homophobic and transphobic bullying must be considered “a profound child protection issue”. Phil Prendergast MEP, reflecting “When I began to on the historic setting for the conference, spoke about the LGBT community and sport, describing a “glass ceiling of homophobia” reflect on my time that exists right across Ireland, on every playing field.

as a YMIP journalist, The next Presidency of the Council of the European Union will be held by Lithuania, a state that came under heavy fire throughout I realised that in the conference. Lithuania has the highest level of youth suicide applying to the in the EU and the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) reports that 88% of teachers in Lithuania Programme I had agree that ‘family’ is based solely on marriage between a man and a taken a leap into the woman. The international perspective of the conference was possibly the unknown and gone key to its success, with panels that provided different insights from around the EU as well as the United States, Turkey and Ireland. Each outside my comfort panellist brought a different perspective, whether legal, youth work, zone without even transgender, activist or human rights, which provided a dearth of understanding to those attending. realising it.” The panels were backed up by a workshop section in the early Laura Mc Loughlin afternoon, and the Conference closed with collaboration on the forthcoming Dublin Statement on LGBT Youth and Social Inclusion. It is hoped that this statement once released will be recognised as a sustainable but pivotal legacy of the Irish Presidency in 2013.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 47 THE REPORTING

“I, Spy” – Is PRISM watching you? Ciara Galvin

“It’s a bit boring isn’t it?” remarked one guard to Reding expects that other areas – such as the right another. to redress – will be addressed in further dialogue, and Shatter stated there is “a need for greater It was a bit boring, stuck in the media centre of transparency in the context of the occasions in which Dublin Castle while ministers from the EU and the US it is utilised”. discussed cyber crime, counter-terrorism and data protection elsewhere in the building. So is PRISM watching you? Possibly, though probably not, unless for some reason you have come to the Ireland’s Minister for Justice Alan Shatter chaired attention of US intelligence agencies. the EU-US ministerial meeting, as part of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Today’s meeting is unlikely to draw a line under the while US Attorney General Eric Holder was on hand matter, though. EU Commissioners were sharply to represent US interests. criticised by digital rights activists earlier this year for removing a proposed anti-FISA clause from EU The meeting was also attended by EU Commissioner, data protection legislation currently under debate. and Vice-President of the European Commission, The clause would have prohibited the release of Viviane Reding, who participated in the Citizens’ EU citizens’ information by tech-companies even Dialogue in Dublin in January. Earlier this week, on court order in the States. It was dropped after Reding wrote a strongly worded letter to Holder, lobbying from the US, ostensibly to not antagonise following public outcry on the now infamous PRISM the US in advance of trade talks, but also because the programme, in which she demanded answers on clause would arguably be ineffective. Much of the PRISM at today’s meeting. data tech-companies hold on EU citizens is stored on servers in the US anyway. PRISM is a data-gathering exercise by the US National Security Agency (NSA), allowed under It is unlikely that a push to end the data-gathering their Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). exercise will arise at a ministerial level. Shatter stated PRISM essentially allows the US to spy on the the importance of not “inhibit(ing) either the United communications of everyone who isn’t a US citizen, States or Europe’s capacity to protect its citizens from by demanding their data from tech-company giants terrorism and terrorist activities”, and while Reding like Google and Microsoft. believes “even in security analysis the right of the citizens have to be preserved”, this “does not mean Reding asked Holder how much surveillance is that security analysis cannot take place, it is necessary conducted under PRISM, how European citizens can to protect our countries”. find out if they’ve had their data gathered, and what rights of redress European citizens will have if they In the wake of the PRISM scandal, however, it have been spied on. At a press conference which seems possible that Members of the European otherwise focused on the topic of victims’ rights, Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee could re- Reding confirmed that her questions about the introduce the anti-FISA clause when it amends the functioning of PRISM were answered “very clearly” by data protection legislation in July. If this happens, it Holder, and that she was satisfied “there has to be a will fall to the next country hosting the Presidency of court order, that it can only be done when there is a the Council of the European Union – Lithuania – to serious presumption (of) crime”. Minister Shatter also negotiate a compromise between the Commission, sought to assuage fears EU citizens may have of Big the Parliament, and the United States. Either way, Brother type surveillance. He clarified that PRISM is a it promises to be an interesting debate for many “particularised system which may target an individual months to come. or an organisation based on solid evidence, as opposed to a catch-all system”.

48 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE OUTCOMES THE OUTCOMES

YMIP was extremely successful in fulfilling its aims of fostering youth-focused coverage of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and thereby improving youth engagement with the Presidency and understanding of the EU and its work amongst the young people of the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and beyond.

We believe that the YMIP journalists should all be proud of how they and their work contributed to the demystification of the EU for Ireland’s young people. YMIP coverage helped people all over Europe, young and old, understand the EU, what it does, and why it is relevant to them and their lives. The programme was a true and living example of youth democracy and “Youth in Action”, as participants seized the opportunity to critically analyse political and social issues and influence their reality by making their voices heard.

In today’s economic climate, YMIP also provided an opportunity for young people in Ireland to learn valuable labour market skills, to network with media and political professionals and to gain a vast amount of valuable professional experience. In the following pages, we have gathered together some of the learnings and achievements of the Programme, based on feedback from YMIP participants and partners, and people and organisations involved in the Programme.

ACHIEVEMENTS “Reflecting now, YMIP brought about a number of collective and individual I am thankful for achievements: the experience. I • Young people from throughout the island of Ireland were actively reporting on and creating media in relation to feel that I have Ireland’s Presidency;

personally gained • Young people established relationships with media a better insight into professionals and experts, key decision-makers, and political figures, illustrating their skills as citizen journalists; EU politics. I really • Young people were given – and seized – an opportunity to enjoyed getting develop and grow their skillsets;

access to some of • A youth focus was brought to the coverage of the Irish the Presidency’s Presidency; important meetings • Young people from the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland were brought together to learn and work together, and feel that the promoting cross-border engagement and co-operation; entire experience • Active citizenship and engagement with the Irish Presidency and European affairs were promoted and fostered gave all participants throughout the Programme, by the EM Ireland team, an amazing partner organisations, and 25 citizen journalists; opportunity to • The European Union, its role, functions, key figures and decision-making procedures were all communicated and become ‘real life’ demystified by the 25 citizen journalists, with a particular journalists.” focus on young demographics. Mary Browne

50 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE OUTCOMES

LEARNING

Over the course of the six months of the Irish Presidency, a lot was learned by all involved – the young journalists and the programme organisers and partners – including the following:

• Through a combination of formal and informal learning, the 25 citizens journalists developed and honed the communication and media skills necessary to report on the Presidency and to communicate incisively with their peers;

• Training was organised for and provided to all participants to address their knowledge needs. This included training on the EU, its institutions and the Presidency of the Council of the EU; social media; clear writing; issues of libel; and on-camera skills;

• Regional mentoring sessions were also organised for and provided to all participants, allowing them the opportunity to meet a journalist from their region and to speak to them in an informal setting about their journalism experience;

• Through national and regional peer sessions, participants learned the benefit of peer support and to appreciate, use and share the skillsets with which they were already equipped starting out on YMIP;

• Through the provision of national and regional reflection sessions facilitated by youth workers, the participants were also encouraged to actively reflect on their experiences and learning throughout the duration of the Programme;

• There was a vast amount of informal education about the Presidency and its work by way of the journalists’ immersion in Presidency events and programmes over the course of the six months.

“In hindsight, YMIP was incredibly different from what I was expecting. I didn’t just attend conferences as I had anticipated – I participated in them. The “fly on the wall” approach that I had envisaged wasn’t at all how the Presidency worked – it revolved around discussions and giving citizens a platform to have their say on what they want Europe to do for them. YMIP allowed me to see a direct connection between the EU and those it represents.” Sorcha Cusack

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 51 THE OUTCOMES

“YMIP gave me the chance to get to know 24 other young people who are full of dreams and ambitions. Everyone has different beliefs and different skills, but they’re all entirely dedicated to making the most of their lives, be it through media work or elsewhere. It was an absolute pleasure to meet them, get to know them, write with them and disagree with them. I know that in years to come, many of these 25 names will crop up in other places. I’m glad that I had the chance to share time and efforts with this group.”

Aisling Twomey

52 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE PARTNERSHIP THE PARTNERSHIP

MEET THE PARTNERS

Community Relations in Schools Community Relations In Schools (CRIS) is a Northern Ireland based proactive, open and welcoming organisation that is driven by a flexible approach to Community Relations work and an understanding of the need to work with each individual, school and community at the stage they are at in their own Community Relations journey. CRIS works alongside children, young people, school staff, parents and community stakeholders within schools and education communities to challenge bias and promote the values of equity, diversity, interdependence and learning.

Learn more about CRIS and their work at www.cris-ni.org.uk.

European Movement Northern Ireland European Movement Northern Ireland is Northern Ireland’s leading pro-European organisation, bringing together people who share a common interest in European co-operation in its widest sense. The Northern Ireland Council of the European Movement organises a programme of events comprising of evening meetings, seminars, lunches and conferences. It also publishes material to inform both its members and the wider public about European affairs.

For further information, visit www.euromoveni.co.uk.

SpunOut.ie SpunOut.ie is an independent, youth-led national charity working to empower young people between the ages of 16 and 25 to create personal and social change. Through its website, SpunOut.ie provides an interactive online community for young people to consume health and lifestyle information and find out about health and advice services available to them in their area, online or over the phone. SpunOut.ie also acts as an online space for young people to share their views and opinions by writing articles for the site or by commenting on pieces written by other young people. SpunOut.ie also runs a number of offline events including an annual Academy, which provides free practical ‘tools for change’ training, a ‘SpunOut Super Heroes’ mini grants scheme, and the ‘SpunOut Youth Summit’.

Interested in the work of SpunOut.ie? Visit www.spunout.ie.

54 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE PARTNERSHIP

“When I struggled to find a topic, I decided instead to YAP Ireland write candidly in my Youth Advocate Programmes (YAP) Ireland’s mission is to build partnerships between vulnerable young people, their families and own voice, that of a communities to support their full potential through a community based, strengths focused, intensive support model which provides a young person with more effective and economic alternative to society’s reliance on the an interest in how direct provision of state institutions and out-of-home care services. YAP Ireland is a leading provider of intensive support programmes our country and for young people and families, leading to positive outcomes for the young people, their families and referral agents. continent are run;

Learn more about YAP Ireland by visiting www.yapireland.ie. and I think those were my best articles from my time in the programme. Now Marion Creely (Media Consultant) that it’s over, I realise Marion Creely is an international award winning programme maker, media consultant how much I will miss and TV producer with RTÉ and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). She has led and the experience, the trained production teams in Europe, China, Ukraine, the Middle East and Africa, with people I met and a special expertise in youth and children’s have worked with, programming. In 2007, she led an Irish team to take part in the World Summit on Children and the opportunity in Media in Johannesburg, SA. She was a founder member of Irish Youth Media which devised the Youth Media and Democracy to feel like an active Conference in DIT in Dublin in 2009. She devised the ‘Youth Media for Europe’ project which collaborated with European Movement part of the wheels Ireland in facilitating and training youth media teams to cover the European Elections of 2009 and the Lisbon Treaty Referendum. that keep society going. I have taken so much from it, and will hopefully cross paths with EM Ireland and all the YMIP crew again at some stage in my future.” Isabella De Luca

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 55 THE PARTNERSHIP

HEAR FROM THE PARTNERS Siobhán O’Dwyer, YAP Ireland Youth Advocate Programmes Ruth McCourt, YMIP Project Officer (European Movement Ireland) Ireland are delighted to have YMIP was a fantastic initiative to be involved in from start to finish. The been a partner in the YMIP volume and quality of the response to our call for applications left us in no Programme. The opportunity doubt that we were onto a winner. From there, the programme grew and presented by the Programme for developed, while all the while our 25 journalists repeatedly surprised me with young people to take part in the their talent, enthusiasm and commitment to the Programme. coverage of the Irish Presidency of the EU through a variety of For me, this Programme was all about the journalists – how they media formats has been a major communicated the Irish Presidency to their peers and readers; how they success. The young people represented the young people of Ireland and Europe at official Presidency involved all gained a great deal of proceedings; and how they grasped the opportunities the Programme real-life experience and provided afforded them for learning, improvement and upskilling. They did all this a wealth of coverage that and more, which only served to increase their profiles and created new and appealed to a youth audience exciting opportunities for them. I never dreamed when we started out, for and raised awareness of the example, that some of our participants would get to interview Christine importance of the EU in Irish life, Lagarde, travel to Brussels to make a video, or partake in an Irish-language in turn encouraging more young panel discussion about young people and Europe at Electric Picnic! people to take an interest in European and domestic politics. Most importantly, YMIP and in particular the YMIP journalists succeeded in bringing a youth perspective to Irish Presidency coverage and demonstrating YAP Ireland, as a strengths- that – contrary to what many may think – young people today are engaged based advocacy programme that and interested in the world around them and are willing to skip sleep, travel works with young people who across the country and take time off work, school and college to get stuck in. experience disadvantage and exclusion, learned a great deal about how we can make better opportunities available in the Catherine Creed, Community Relations in Schools future for them to participate in It has been a pleasure for Community Relations In Schools (CRIS) to be programmes such as YMIP. We involved in the YMIP programme. CRIS is a Belfast-based education started a conversation within the charity, which works with schools and communities across Northern organisation about citizenship Ireland to promote community and good relations and embed the and young people, and families values of equity, diversity, interdependence, challenging bias and across the country are preparing promoting learning. CRIS works with all school community stakeholders presentations on this topic for an – including children and young people, school staff, families and the event we will hold in October. wider community. I wish the young people all the The YMIP programme fitted well into CRIS’ ethos and work as best for the future and look supporting individuals and communities to engage with domestic and forward to working with our European politics – especially through community activism – is a key partner organisations on future area of CRIS’ work. It has been great to see young people actively exciting projects. engaged in exploring the impact of the Irish Presidency of the European Union and particularly in communicating that to a wider audience through a range of media formats. Everyone at CRIS wishes the young people who have taken part in the programme all the best in their future work.

56 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency THE PARTNERSHIP

John Buckley, SpunOut.ie When SpunOut.ie heard about the YMIP programme, we instantly felt it was a natural fit for the organisation. SpunOut.ie exists to ensure that young people have a chance to express themselves via a range of different mediums. The organisation also focuses on the information gap that often exists for young people with political issues.

SpunOut.ie was involved in the programme on a number of levels. We actively recruited young people from across Ireland to the programme, provided training and facilitation support to the group at a number of national and regional training and mentoring events throughout the year, and provided a platform for the publication of YMIP work. A number of articles and videos produced by the YMIP journalists were featured on our website and social media channels, which reach hundreds of thousands of young people around the country.

When you stop to think of the European Presidency in isolation, I think it’s often hard to see where young people play a part. The YMIP project in 2013, for me, has played a role in challenging that idea. The young citizen journalists started tentatively, but it was clear from working with them that they have such a wealth of talent, that was just waiting for the opportunity to be tapped into.

For me, what the project participants achieved was breaking down the Presidency for themselves, young people, the journalism industry and politicians. The groups showed that young people are citizens in their own right, with strong opinions, talents and interests; citizens that Europe in general as a society should pay more attention to. The programme showed the value of learning by immersion for young people and the value of peer support. The range of content was really incredible, which gave the project a rich tapestry of perspectives.

Marion Creely, Executive Producer, RTÉ, and Media Consultant to YMIP

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency is a unique media sources, know the origin and motivation of all opinions literacy project with which I am proud to be associated. and information you include in your communications, It is the second project in a process which rose out of an develop your editorial skills and maintain a sense international movement to empower young people to of integrity and fairness. And of course, hone your express themselves creatively and journalistically using communication skills. In the end, the quality of your the many opportunities new technology offers. communication and production skills is paramount to your ability to influence an audience. As an RTÉ programme maker, I have spent more than 20 years making programmes ‘for and about’ the audience: This project provided a talented group of young people both adult and youth. But this project is different; it the opportunity to engage with European issues, hone is about facilitating the participants to be the creator, their communication skills and learn from some of the the opinion former and the influencer, and not just the brightest practitioners in media and politics today. The passive consumer. project follows on from Irish engagement in the World Summit on Media for Children, 2007; the Irish Youth In the last 10 years, there has been an explosion of Media Development (IYMD)/DIT Conference ‘Youth communications technology which has rocked the world Media and Democracy’, 2008; and the IYMD/European of media both in TV and the newspaper industry. Whole Movement Ireland project ‘Youth Media for Europe’, new ways of communicating have sprung up which give 2009. The quality of the participants’ contributions over opportunities for communicating, lobbying, organising the duration of the Presidency is testament to its success. campaigns, protests and gatherings, and expressing a Proliferation of media outlets only guarantees quantity, point of view , that not so long ago the average citizen not quality. The modern world needs youth engagement could only dream of . The citizen journalist was born. in the development of its political life. Youth media literacy projects such as YMIP empower such In some quarters it is believed that practitioners in ‘old engagement. Hopefully this project will inspire further media’ are ‘old hat’. But the core skills and capacities developments in the field of media literacy and youth required of journalists in ‘old media’ remain: check your political empowerment.

56 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 57 THE PARTNERSHIP

Cartoon by Eoin Kelleher, YMIP.

“I don’t regret the hours spent in Dublin covering events, nor do I regret the times I felt out of place in a room full of well-educated, well-dressed and successful grownups because it was an experience to remember.”

Tarisai May Chidawanyika

58 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

EM Ireland and our partner organisations would like to thank the following individuals and groups who – by providing advice and guidance, facilitating workshops and reflection sessions, and mentoring the citizen journalists – kindly gave of their time and expertise so as to ensure the success of YMIP:

Name Organisation Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore TD Commissioner Viviane Reding Vice-President, European Commission Lucinda Creighton TD Former Minister of State for European Affairs Andrea Pappin Spokesperson of the Irish Presidency Andrew Chapple Service Manager, YAP Ireland Christine Bohan Deputy Editor, TheJournal.ie Christine Lagarde Managing Director, International Monetary Fund Dara Calleary TD Fianna Fáil EM Ireland Advisory Council EM Ireland Board Emily Brennan DHR Communications Eoin O’Broin Sinn Féin Hilary Martyn Editor, Galway Independent Irish Presidency Team John Lyons TD Labour Party Karen Coleman Broadcast Journalist Kathy Foley Clear Ink Krishna De Digital communications and online publicity strategist Léargas Lucinda Glynn BBC Ulster Margaret E. Ward Managing Director, Clear Ink Marion Creely YMIP Media Consultant Martina Quinn DHR Communications Mary Smithwick Political Editor, Evening Echo Rachael Power Youth Worker, Simon Community Northern Ireland Rachel Collier Young Social Innovators Sarah Bardon Political Editor, Irish Daily Mirror Simon Harris TD Fine Gael Stephen O’Shea Former Special Adviser to the Minister of State for European Affairs

60 Youth Media and the Irish Presidency This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

Youth Media and the Irish Presidency 61