#405 Too Young to Drink, Old Enough to Vote?

The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)

In this episode, Niall asks whether 16-year-olds should be allowed to vote. The Social Democrats are set to table a bill to lower Ireland’s voting age from 18 to 16 — but is that too young to make informed political decisions? Are today’s teenagers engaged enough to help shape the future of the country, or are they being used as political pawns?

Some callers argue that if 16-year-olds can work, pay taxes, and drive mopeds, they deserve a say in shaping policies that will affect them for decades — especially when it comes to climate, housing, and education.

Others disagree, saying teenagers are still developing emotionally and intellectually, and shouldn't be handed responsibility over national decision-making. Some feel the proposal is less about civic empowerment and more about political strategy.

As the lines light up, the debate gets heated, with strong views on both sides about maturity, responsibility, and what it really means to be ready to vote.