National Assembly to host event aimed at getting young people voting

5 May 2010

An event aimed at encouraging young people to get involved in the democratic process will be held in the National Assembly for Wales’s education debating chamber today (May 5).

The event has been organised in conjunction with the Council for Education in World Citizenship-Cymru (CEWC Cymru) – which helps young citizens develop the skills to contribute to the future of Wales and the world.

Sixty 15-18 year-olds from 12 schools will discuss and debate issues of national and global significance, including the Wales for Africa programme, sustainable development and substance misuse in higher and further education establishments.

Deputy Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales, Rosemary Butler AM, who is sponsoring the event, said: “As Wales’s principal democratic institution, the Assembly is firmly committed to ensuring full and equal representation for all of the people of Wales.

“It is vital that young people get involved in democracy, whether it’s taking part in an event like today’s, taking an interest in the activities of their local council or writing to Assembly Members about an issue that matters to them.

“Today, the day before a UK general election, it is perhaps particularly clear that it is the voice of the electorate that counts. I hope that today leaves participants inspired to take an interest in the debates and decisions that are made by the National Assembly for Wales”.

Naomi Blight of CEWC-Cymru said: “These events engage students across Wales with both the work of the National Assembly and with contemporary political issues, which is hugely important.

They also enable young people to develop key debating, communication and thinking skills.”