12 November 2004

Young people need to voice opinions more clearly: Youth Forum

Young people need to voice their opinions loudly, clearly and more often, the Chairperson of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum has said.

Speaking at the organisations regional launch in Newry on Friday, Youth Forum Chairperson Conor McGinn said his group had always had a strong input from young people in the Newry area.

“It’s vital that young people are valued as equal members of our society,” Mr McGinn said. “Newry and Mourne District Council are a shining example to local authorities and government in encouraging young people to become actively involved in civic life and express their opinions confidently and articulately.”

Mayor of Newry and Mourne Cllr Henry Reilly echoed Mr McGinn’s sentiments in welcoming over 60 guests to the event. He said: “Today is special and one which marks an important event for young people of this district. Young people are our future and if we as community leaders want to invest in that future then we should give whatever help we can to ensure that young people views are listened to.

“We should help build a peaceful and fair place where the youth of this island can live free from fear, where their rights and promoted and respects and where they can have a say. I look forward to Newry and Mourne District Council playing our part in bringing this about.”

Among the guests at Friday’s event was Secretary of State Paul Murphy, school pupils and young people from across the District, elected representatives from Armagh, Dundalk and Louth Councils, and local MLA’s.

(MB)