The Minister sang the praises of the great outdoors in a specially recorded DVD broadcast during the ‘Growing Up Outdoors’ conference in London organised by the Countryside Recreation Network
During the interview, Mr Wilson urged young people, especially those with troubled p
ts, to participate in sports such as abseiling, climbing, hill walking, canoeing and cycling.
He said: "Outdoor recreation is undoubtedly one of the best ways in which we can encourage young people to replace destructive behaviour with activities which will allow them to show their bravado, boost their self-esteem and redirect their lives.
"We should be full of admiration for the work of outdoor recreation organisations and youth leaders.
"By directing the energies of our youth they change lives. And in more recent years, the value of adventure activities in cementing cross community relationships has become increasingly obvious.
"In Northern Ireland, my Department is proud to be in a position to support bodies such as the Countryside Access and Activities Network, the National Trust and district councils in providing access for a wide range of countryside activities."
The ‘Growing Up Outdoors’ conference highlights the benefits and challenges in encouraging young people to be active in outdoor activities.
Dr Carol-Lynne Ferris of the Belfast based Countryside Access and Activities Network (CAAN) chaired the event at which other speakers considered how adults can overcome some of their own anxieties about children using the countryside around their homes.
Notes to Editors:
- The Growing Up Outdoors Conference is promoted by the Countryside Recreation Network (CRN) which is a networking body covering the UK and Republic of Ireland. CRN gives easy access to information for people concerned with countryside and recreation related matters. It reaches a variety of organisations and individuals in the statutory, private and public sectors. Research reports are compiled and a wide range of information exchanged to help agencies develop best policy and practice in countryside recreation.
- Other ministers from the UK Government and devolved administrations took part in the DVD. They comprised of: Huw Irranca-Davies, Defra Minister; Adam Ingram, Minister for Children and Early Years, Play and Outdoor Learning; Jane Davidson, Welsh Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing.
- For further information, contact Press Office, tel: 028 9054 0003 and out-of-hours contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
