Children and young people to have their say

Children and young people will be able to directly influence government policy following the launch of a new initiative by Junior Ministers today.

The Participation Network will help bring young people closer to the heart of government decision making and play a greater role in shaping policy issues and legislation.

Speaking at the launch in Stormont, Ian Paisley Jnr said: “As an Executive we are fully committed to securing and prioritising the rights of our children and young people.

“Participation Network will help give them a very loud and clear voice when it comes to influencing decision making.

“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 explained.

Gerry Kelly said: “Our children have a very positive and real contribution to make to our society.

“We value them, we want to listen to them and we want to empower them to be able to change the world around them.

“By finding new ways to consult effectively and directly with them on issues that affect their lives, we hope to both improve the quality of their lives as well as ensuring we deliver services that meet their needs,” Mr Kelly added.

The Participation Network is one area of government’s commitment to the requirements in Article 12 of the United Nations Conventions of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act.

Notes to Editors:

1. The launch was held in the Long Gallery in Parliament Buildings with members of the voluntary and community sector in attendance.
2. The two Junior Ministers have responsibility for the co-ordination of policy for children and young people.
3. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office, (028) 9037 8283 or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number on 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.