At the launch of a groundbreaking report, groups called on the government to tackle the “extreme isolation” experienced by trans youth in Ireland.

The Trans Youth Forum report documented the findings of the Trans Youth Forum (July 2005), a joint partnership between Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI), BeLonG To Youth Services and the Irish Transgender Student Alliance (ITSA), which saw the particpation of 55 young people between the ages of 14-25.

TENI, BeLonG To and ITSA used the launch of the report to call on the Government to improve healthcare, education and legal recognition for trans young people. The organisations noted that it was crucial that the Gender Recognition Act is revised to allow those under 18 years of age – including non-binary and intersex people – to have their gender legally recognised.

“This report clearly illustrates that trans young people need explicit support and protection in all spheres of their lives. We call on the Government to act swiftly to protect the rights of these young people,” said TENI Chief Executive Broden Giambrone.

“In BeLonG To LGBT youth groups in Dublin and nationally we see firsthand the extreme isolation and vulnerability that trans young people and their families experience. Young people often face numerous barriers around recognition of their true gender such as use of their correct pronouns, access to appropriate bathrooms and wearing suitable school uniforms,” said Lisa McKenny, Coordinator of IndividualiTY, BeLonG To Youth Services’ trans youth support group.

“The Gender Recognition Act was an incredible step forward for the trans community in Ireland. But we’re not done,” added Giambrone. “TENI will be actively campaigning to ensure that trans young people are protected and their rights must be enshrined.”