Youth and Politics

The Northern Ireland Assembly has received over 250 self-nominations from young people across Northern Ireland who want to play a part in setting up a Youth Assembly. Thirty young people, chosen from the nominees, will help develop the look, feel and purpose of a Northern Ireland Youth Assembly which will be launched in late 2011. Speaking at the end of the nomination process the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, William Hay, MLA said: We are delighted at the level of interest shown in this Youth Assembly and with the high number of nominations we have received. Nominations have come from young people throughout Northern Ireland and I am particularly pleased that a large proportion of the nominees live in rural locations. It demonstrates the enthusiasm of young people to engage in the democratic process and to help shape the future of Northern Ireland politics. The Panel of 30 young people will work with us over the next 12 months to ensure the Youth Assembly gives young people a strong voice on issues that concern them. The Youth Panel will be made up of 30 young people and will meet regularly around Northern Ireland over the course of a year. They will work with the Northern Ireland Assembly Commission to develop plans for a youth assembly. It is an opportunity for young people to make a real difference and secure a stronger voice in issues that concern them, as well as gain experience and develop skills for the future.