Laois Youth Worker Calls For Young People To Have Their Say On Proposed Culture Cards

Concerns are mounting over the cost of the scheme ahead of Budget 2027.

A Laois youth worker is questioning the Government's decision to propose rolling out culture cards to all 16-year-olds residing in Ireland. 

Following concerns being raised over the cost of the scheme ahead of Budget 2027 the initiative could be shelved.

The CEO of Youth Work Ireland Laois says the decision was made without consulting young people living in Ireland.

Having worked in the industry for years, he says a consultation with young people should have taken place before the announcement of the culture cards.

The €100 allotment was proposed by the Irish Government for Budget 2027 to encourage young people to engage with cultural spaces.

The digital or downloadable would be issued to over 70,000 to 75,000 16-year-olds across the country.

The sum could be used on tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, and music or arts venues and could be spent all at once or split across multiple activities.

The scheme, which was pushed by Culture Minister Patrick O'Donovan, and would require an overall investment of around €7 million.

It is the Government's latest proposal aimed at supporting services, facilities and amenities for teenagers and young adults.

If introduced, the scheme could be expanded to include 17-year-olds, who would also receive the same €100 cultural allowance.

However, Clive Davis says investment into youth services would be more beneficial for teenagers and young adults.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.

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