North Mayo call for youth hub to deter anti-social behaviour
A YOUTH ACTIVIST from Knockmore, Dara Walsh, has conducted a comprehensive survey that highlights an overwhelming demand for a dedicated youth centre in Ballina. The findings reveal that 87% of young people believe the town needs a youth hub, with 82% stating they would use such a facility at least once a week.
"I began in late September with a survey, both online and in-person, and the results showed a clear majority in favour of a place where young people can spend time," Walsh explained.
Currently, he believes there is no suitable space in Ballina for those aged 12-17 to gather without being drawn toward anti-social behaviour. Survey data backs this up, with 71% of young people saying there are insufficient social and recreational spaces, while 65% feel that existing community areas do not cater to their needs.
"There’s very little to do, so I set out along with Foroige as part of my Leadership module. I sent out this survey and have since met with Councillor Joe Faughnan and Fine Gael Senator Mark Duffy to discuss the need for a dedicated youth space in the town he said.
The survey also shed light on the types of activities young people are seeking. 78% expressed interest in mental health and well-being workshops, 74% want access to creative arts programs, and 69% are interested in career development and job skills workshops. Walsh believes a youth hub could provide these vital resources while fostering a sense of community.
Through his research with Foroige, Walsh found that a proposed youth hub could create four full-time jobs. Ideally, the centre would feature a communal area, two or three break-out rooms, a sensory room, study labs, a computer room, and a kitchenette. The primary goal, he stated, is to provide an unstructured educational space for after-school hours.
Following discussions with local politicians, Walsh revealed that there are two potential locations for the hub: one in the Military Barracks IQ Hub in the town centre and another at the old St. Mary’s Convent, which is currently under renovation. “The convent would be the most ideal as it’s close to the cinema and not too central to the town,” he noted.
Knockmore Foroige, an active youth organisation, already plays a significant role in the community, hosting the annual Foroige ‘Amplified’ Festival, which attracts 3,000 attendees each year. Yet, in Walsh’s view, the lack of non-privatised, unstructured youth spaces remains a pressing issue in the north of the county.
Having started this project in August 2024, Walsh has already gained substantial backing from the local community. He points out that in other towns, youth hubs operate from 1 p.m. on weekends until 10 p.m. in the evening, providing a vital space for young people.
"It would give young people a safe place to go, helping them stay out of trouble and offering support—whether they’re waiting for a parent to finish work or simply looking for somewhere to spend time with friends," he said.
Walsh believes that providing a dedicated youth hub would directly help reduce anti-social behaviour in Ballina. Survey results support this, with 67% of respondents believing a youth hub would reduce anti-social behaviour, while 58% feel unsafe in public spaces due to a lack of youth activities.
"If young people don’t have anywhere to go, that often leads to anti-social behaviour. A youth hub can help to prevent that."