ALMOST A QUARTER of children and young people fret about the economy and finances, according to a report into being a child in Ireland commissioned by the government.

24 per cent of children said that the economy and finances were the worst things about being a child, with another sixth stating that the weather was the worst. 11 per cent complained about ant-social behaviour.

Elsewhere in the report, ‘Life as a Child and Young Person in Ireland‘, 20 per cent said that the education they receive is the best thing about being a child in Ireland. Sport (16 per cent) came second, followed by friends (14 per cent) and simply being Irish (11 per cent).

“This report documents the views of 66,705 children and young people and is the biggest public consultation with children and young people ever conducted in Ireland” said Frances Fitzgerald TD, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.

Despite stating that they were satisfied with the education system, 22 per cent of children and 27 per cent of young people also indicated that they would like to change some aspect of the education system. Many also called for additional play and recreation facilities.

“This finding justifies much of my efforts to prioritise the promotion and development of play and recreation opportunities for young people” said Fitzgerald.

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