NEW CHAPTER FOR DEMOCRACY AS YOUTH ASSEMBLY MEETS IN PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS

The Youth Assembly for Northern Ireland held its second sitting, and its first sitting in person in Parliament Buildings, today (Saturday 6 November) to debate and decide its priorities and forward work plans.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Alex Maskey MLA, presided over the sitting, during which Youth Assembly members debated many issues of concern to young people, before voting and agreeing on four priorities.

Speaker Alex Maskey MLA, said: “I am delighted that we have reached this important milestone for the Youth Assembly. Until now, all meetings have been virtual and this is the first time that the Youth Assembly has sat in person in Parliament Buildings.

“What took place at today’s sitting is hugely important. The young people have debated and discussed the issues that they are passionate about. Following a vote, the Youth Assembly democratically agreed the four priorities that will be their initial focus over the next two years.

“Today is a great step forward for local democratic participation and for empowering young people. That is underlined by the fact that today’s sitting took place on the day of the climate change rally in Belfast City Centre to mark the COP26 summit.  Climate change is a great example of a significant issue which young people have put their energy behind and have helped to move to the top of the political agenda.  This demonstrates that the Youth Assembly has every potential to be a really important platform for the voice of young people and that people are listening.

“Today marks a new chapter for the Youth Assembly and for all young people across Northern Ireland.”

The four priorities that the Youth Assembly agreed would be the focus of their work over the coming two years are: Education, Environment, Health, and Rights and Equality.

ENDS

For all media enquiries:

Caroline Moore
The Communications Office
Northern Ireland Assembly
Mobile: 07900 278992
Email: caroline.moore@niassembly.gov.uk