Children’s art brings EU child rights pledge to life in Dublin
A child-designed sculpture now stands as a symbol of the European Child Guarantee ahead of a major EU meeting in Dublin. The event will unite policymakers to tackle poverty and exclusion among young people across Europe.
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Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 2 min read
A vibrant sculpture created with children and young people is set to take centre stage as European Union representatives converge in Dublin today and tomorrow for a pivotal meeting on the European Child Guarantee. The artwork, crafted by artist Helen O’Connell, draws inspiration from the humble snail—chosen by children who described its shell as a source of safety and comfort, much like the feeling of bringing home wherever they go. The sculpture symbolises two critical pillars of the Guarantee: healthcare and housing, with its creation guided by The Ark, Dublin’s dedicated cultural haven for young art enthusiasts.
The two-day gathering, co-hosted by the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU and the European Commission, will focus on prevention, early intervention, and inclusion during the early years. Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley emphasised the Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of background, has access to essential services. "While progress has been made, challenges persist," she noted, highlighting the upcoming launch of Ireland’s first National Policy on Prevention and Early Intervention as a key step forward.
Minister of State Emer Higgins, who will open the event, reflected on the power of the children’s artwork: "Behind our policy discussions lies a simple truth—children deserve security and support to thrive." Delegates will also hear from Tusla CEO Kate Duggan and MEP Hristo Petrov, Chair of the European Parliament’s working group on the Guarantee. A parallel civil society event, organised by the Children’s Rights Alliance, Tusla, and Eurofound, will run alongside the official meeting, fostering collaboration on shared challenges and solutions.
The two-day gathering, co-hosted by the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU and the European Commission, will focus on prevention, early intervention, and inclusion during the early years. Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley emphasised the Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of background, has access to essential services. "While progress has been made, challenges persist," she noted, highlighting the upcoming launch of Ireland’s first National Policy on Prevention and Early Intervention as a key step forward.
Minister of State Emer Higgins, who will open the event, reflected on the power of the children’s artwork: "Behind our policy discussions lies a simple truth—children deserve security and support to thrive." Delegates will also hear from Tusla CEO Kate Duggan and MEP Hristo Petrov, Chair of the European Parliament’s working group on the Guarantee. A parallel civil society event, organised by the Children’s Rights Alliance, Tusla, and Eurofound, will run alongside the official meeting, fostering collaboration on shared challenges and solutions.
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