Mayo TD to chair Oireachtas Committee on Children and Equality

MAYO Fine Gael TD Keira Keogh has been appointed chair of the Select Committee on Children and Equality by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris.

The appointment recognises her long-standing commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of children, young people, and marginalised communities across Ireland.

A passionate advocate for accessible, affordable and high-quality childcare, Deputy Keogh has consistently campaigned for policies that prioritise children’s rights and wellbeing, including safeguarding children online.

“I am determined to advance the Programme for Government commitments, including the €200 monthly cap on childcare costs,” said Deputy Keogh. “Just last week, I met with two young mothers in Westport who do not know what they will do when their maternity leave finishes in September as they have no access to childcare.

“Affordable, accessible, and high-quality childcare for every family in Ireland must be achieved. We must grow state involvement and investment in the childcare sector, while maintaining partnership with our private providers.”

Deputy Keogh brings to the role a strong background in early intervention and youth advocacy, shaped by her professional work as a behaviour consultant and her leadership role on the board of Junior Chamber International. Her work has focused on empowering young people, supporting families, and ensuring early support for children with additional needs.

In her new role, Deputy Keogh looks forward to working with key stakeholders like Coimisiún na Meán to improve online safety frameworks that protect children and young people in the digital space and Tusla to strengthen safeguarding structures, ensuring every child in need is protected by responsive and resilient systems.

Youth voices are central to policy making, especially on issues like mental health, digital wellbeing, and inclusion and we must ensure they are included and heard.

Keogh committed to continuing to be an ally and advocate for LGBTQI+ rights, particularly in a time of renewed threat to equality and dignity.

“It is an honour to chair this committee at a time when we have both the opportunity and responsibility to shape a more equitable, inclusive future for children and families across Ireland,” she said.