Press Release May 2010
A new schools resource pack Rights and Entitlements for Young People launched today by the Citizens Information Board (CIB) is the first resource of its kind that makes students aware of their rights and entitlements and shows them how to access important and useful information using the internet.
The resource was developed as a flexible 8 to 10 week programme aimed at Transition Year students. However, it can also be used for students in Leaving Cert Applied, Leaving Cert Vocational Programme and in less formal settings such as Youth Services.
Speaking at the launch, Emily Logan, the Ombudsman for Children said: "I believe that it is really important that young people have access to information when they need it. This resource pack is filling a vital role in ensuring that young people are aware of their rights across a variety of topics. Part of the role of my Office is to support people to find out more about children and young people's rights and I am delighted to be part of the launch this morning and to lend my support to this excellent resource".
Michael O'Leary, National Coordinator, Transition Year Programme is very enthusiastic about the programme and said: "this is an excellent Transition Year resource which promotes students' personal and social development. The flexibility of its design means that it can be used in a range of subjects, for example, Business Studies, Mathematics, English, I.C.T. and Home Economics."
The resource was developed by the Citizens Information Board in consultation with teachers and students and piloted in 13 schools around the country. It informs students about their rights and entitlements in 6 key topic areas: Shopping, Work, School, At Home, Leaving Home and Travel and Transport. Feedback to date from those on the pilot programme shows that the topic of Work which covers rights and entitlements of employees, minimum age for working, paying tax, payslips and problems in the workplace and the Shopping topic which covers consumer rights, refunds, gift vouchers and deposits have proved most popular. Young people particularly like the use of examples that they can relate to.
"This is a very welcome up to date resource with information of high relevance to teenagers. I found it very easy to use. The worksheets help focus and engage the students. The role plays are excellent and help develop student communication skills", said teacher John Cooney from Athlone Community College.
To receive a free copy of the Resource Pack contact:
Customer Service & Training, Citizens Information
Board, Georges Quay House, 43 Townsend Street, Dublin
2
Tel: 01-6059000 Email: gillian.strain@ciboard.ie
Pictured at the launch of the Schools Resource Pack are from left: Sylda Langford, Chair, Michael O'Leary, National Coordinator, Transition Year Programme, Geraldine Cullen, Customer Service & Training Manager, Tony McQuinn, Chief Executive and Emily Logan, Ombudsman for Children.
Pictured: Dean Daly (left) and Wayne Travers from Killinarden Community School, Tallaght pictured with Emily Logan, Ombudsman for Children.
