‘Anti-social behaviour’ term creates negative image of young people, councillors told

THE young people of Meath are asking people to stop using the term "anti-social behaviour" when referring to them because they say it creates images that they are up to no good.

The plea was made to Meath County Council members by Meath Comhairle na nOg when they addressed councillors recently. They say that the term is used in every day language to identify young people who gather in friend groups and are deemed to be intimidating to others.

"Anti-social behaviour is, by definition, criminal behaviour and although we are aware that some young people partake in criminal behaviour we know it’s not all young people," they said.

"Our request to you is when speaking of young people, where possible speak in a positive manner, don’t refer to groups of young people as anti-social behaviour – all we are doing is what adults do daily, meeting our friends, discussing our day’s activities and having fun. Let’s change the conversation and image of young people together and create a picture of young people being active healthy members of our communities".

The Meath comhairle is also involved in a "Not Around Us" campaign aimed at promoting a reduction in the visibility of smoking and vaping in places where young people gather or attend youth centres, libraries, parks, playgrounds.

"In collaboration with Healthy Ireland and Meath County Council we aim to deliver a promise that encourages smokers and vapers to do so away from main entrances and gathering spots in these youth-friendly locations. Together we could create a smoke and vape-free generation."