Almost Seven In Ten Young Adults Considering Emigrating

On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke about a growing concern for young people across Ireland — the decision of whether to stay or seek opportunities abroad. New research from the National Youth Council of Ireland finds that 68% of 18 to 24-year-olds are considering moving abroad, with housing, the cost of living and employment among their biggest concerns. To hear what that looks like in real life, Alan was joined by four young people with very different experiences: musician Fionn Hayes from Sixmilebridge; Thomas Earle from Lissycasey, who moved to England at 18; Mae McConigly from Killaloe, now studying in the Netherlands; and Katie Raggett from Killaloe, who is living and working in Belfast and hoping to buy a home there. So, what is driving young people to look beyond Ireland — and what would make them want to stay? Photo (c) pixelshot via Canva