Youth charity wants young people to vote

ONLINE INITIATIVE: A CAMPAIGN to encourage Ireland’s youth to vote in the fiscal treaty referendum has been launched by SpunOut…

ONLINE INITIATIVE:A CAMPAIGN to encourage Ireland's youth to vote in the fiscal treaty referendum has been launched by SpunOut, a charity run by young people for young people.

The online initiative, which aims to give young people a better understanding of the issues involved in the referendum, went live yesterday on SpunOut.ie.

It includes a breakdown of “what is inside the treaty”, and a comments section where young people can have their say on the issues involved.

“It is important that young people continue to express their opinion by voting and by ensuring they make their voices heard loud and clear,” said SpunOut youth engagement officer John Buckley.

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“SpunOut aims to make young people aware of the upcoming referendum whilst trying to remove the jargon from the political debate,” he added.

The site also features short YouTube videos of politicians on both sides of the campaign, answering questions about the treaty submitted by young people via Facebook and Twitter.

Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton, Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin responded on behalf of the Yes side, while Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald, United Left Alliance TD Richard Boyd Barrett and Independent TD Luke “Ming” Flanagan represented those advocating a No vote.

Ciara Kenny

Ciara Kenny

Ciara Kenny, founding editor of Irish Times Abroad, a section for Irish-connected people around the world, is Editor of the Irish Times Magazine