Junior Ministers Anderson and Bell host Participation Awards 2011

Junior Ministers Martina Anderson and Jonathan Bell have hosted the NICCY Participation Awards tonight at a ceremony in Parliament Buildings.
~ Wednesday, 23 November 2011

The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People Participation Awards recognised the work in the civil service and public sector to involve children and young people in policy development and decision-making.

Speaking at the event Junior Minister Anderson said: "The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister remains committed to implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

"These awards have given public bodies an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to the ethos of participation of children and young people. We must ensure that the opinions and views of our children and young people are heard and acted upon."

Junior Minister Bell continued: "The Executive’s long term vision is that all government departments, statutory agencies and local government will develop a culture where the views of our children and young people are routinely sought in matters which impact on their lives and we intend to lead by example.

"All voices are valid, all opinion is welcome and through events such as tonight's, we will ensure that they are listened to.

"We want to offer our congratulations to all those young people who have taken part in the awards panel and to all those who have won awards this evening.”

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