:: press release ::

October 26, 2008

Political Potential for our Young People

Following what was a very successful Youth Forum Debate held in Stormont which was attended by over 100 young people, East Antrim MLA Alastair Ross has commented on the potential many showcased.

Mr Ross said, ‘I attended the Youth Forum Debate at Stormont yesterday and listened to the contributions made and was very impressed with the standard of debate showcased.

The young people discussed issues including anti-social behaviour and under age drinking, two very relevant and important issues and I was glad to see them evoke debate.

It is very important that we support our young people and we should be encouraged that so many show a keen interest in the political world. It shows how far we have come when Northern Ireland can boast so many young people eager to have a voice and be active in politics.

I would encourage our young people to talk to their local MLAs and get involved as much as they can, join the political party which represents them best and continue taking an interest in this field.

The decisions we make in the Assembly will have a knock-on effect for our young people so it is important that we represent their needs and opinions too.

I would like to congratulate the participants of the Youth Forum Debate and look forward to seeing them in future political roles.'