Welcoming the young people to Stormont, Ian Paisley Jnr and Gerry Kelly reaffirmed the Executive’s commitment to securing and prioritising the rights of children and young people.
Mr Paisley Jnr said: “Its great to see so many young people interested in making their views known and contributing so positively to ensuring the issues of young people are recognised.
“We are keen to ensure they are able to directly influence government policy and recently launched the Participation Network to achieve just that. It will train statutory agencies, local government and executive departments on how to effectively reach out and talk to our young people so that they can have a say on issues affecting them,” he added.
Mr Kelly said he wanted to help bring young people closer to the heart of government decision making and play a greater role in shaping policy issues and legislation.
“We are always looking for new and interesting ways to effectively and directly engage young people and marching up the steps of Parliament Buildings is certainly a direct approach. We are committed to giving them every opportunity to influence and direct policy which impacts on their live as well as ensuring we deliver services that meet their needs,” Mr Kelly added.
The event, organised by Public Achievement, marks United Nations’ International Children’s Day,
Notes to Editors:
The Junior Ministers have responsibility for children and young people’s issues
Ministers Kelly and Paisley Jnr invited Patricia Lewsley – Commissioner for Children and Young People and representatives from key voluntary organisations Barnardo’s, NSPCC, CiNI and save the Children to join them to hear first hand the main issues affecting children and young people.
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