Irish premier Micheál Martin and other leaders will discuss early years systems at a meeting of the British-Irish Council (BIC) in Guernsey. The Taoiseach and Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee are attending the summit, hosted by Guernsey's Chief Minister Lindsay de Sausmarez.
Background of the British-Irish Council
The council, established under the Good Friday Agreement, aims to promote practical and mutually beneficial relations between Ireland and the United Kingdom. This year's summit includes discussions on early years systems to support children and families, including age-appropriate digital access and wellbeing.
Quotes from Leaders
Mr Martin said: “The British-Irish Council offers an opportunity to meet with our nearest neighbours to exchange ideas and discuss issues that affect us all, a core component of the Good Friday Agreement. This summit’s theme on supporting healthy and happy childhoods and early years is a priority for my Government, and I look forward to hearing the insights and learnings from others while in Guernsey. Digital technologies in particular are becoming an increasingly larger part of children’s lives and it is essential we provide evidence-informed guidance to parents and educators.”
Ms McEntee said: “The BIC provides a vital forum for strengthening cooperation with counterparts from across these islands on the issues that matter most to our citizens and gives us a chance to work closely on areas of mutual concern. Protecting children online will be one of my key priorities at this summit. As digital technologies become an ever greater part of children’s lives, we must work together to ensure they have access to age-appropriate, safe and empowering digital experiences that support their learning, development and wellbeing. Through closer collaboration, shared expertise and coordinated action, we can develop effective solutions that better protect children across these islands.”
Impact and Significance
The summit underscores the commitment of both nations to collaborate on early childhood development and digital safety, leveraging the BIC framework to share best practices and coordinate policies. The focus on evidence-informed guidance aims to equip parents and educators with tools to navigate the digital landscape.
