Sunday, July 22, 2007
Opening up the democratic channels
Youth Parliament at the Respect Festival Fun Olympics – July 8th 2007
When Dawn and I put our best foot forward and had a tie-win with two athletic young politicians in the three-legged race, there was a good feeling in the fun competitions with the Youth Parliament! The members are elected by their schools councils, local areas or groups. This event at the Respect Festival was my second engagement with the young people, following the successful inaugural event which Dawn Butler MP hosted in the House of Commons.
What we are learning from the young people is whatever their age, which impressively ranges from ten years old to nineteen, whatever their ability or special need, they are clearly expressing views around key issues for the council. Their selected priorities are crime and safety, health and well-being and sports and leisure, and their debates must have an impact. Some of the young politicians are experienced in representing their peers or groups while others are becoming skilful. We expect the channels to open up across the borough setting good standards for fostering democracy.
Interacting with politicians in the tug of war may have been a pushover for youth but the event was certainly a triumph for the organisers, reminding us all that fun often helps to win the day.
Cllr Mary Arnold, Spokesperson for Children and Families
