Eighty-nine young Queenslanders who are passionate about politics and youth issues have been chosen as members of the 12th annual YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament. Youth Minister Warren Pitt said the YMCA Youth Parliament program provided a vital link between today's legislators and tomorrow's potential leaders.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Eighty-nine young Queenslanders who are passionate about politics and youth issues have been chosen as members of the 12th annual YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.
Youth Minister Warren Pitt said the YMCA Youth Parliament program provided a vital link between today’s legislators and tomorrow’s potential leaders.
Mr Pitt said the Queensland Government had been a major supporter and sponsor of the YMCA Youth Parliament since 1996 and had contributed more than $30,000 to ensure the success of this year’s program.
“This unique program gives young Queenslanders first-hand experience of how their Parliament and system of government operates and how they can help shape the future of their community and their state,” Mr Pitt said.
“Young people sometimes feel disillusioned about politics, yet I believe the Youth Parliament is playing an important role in making politics and policy making much more accessible.
“Our newest recruits have a busy six months ahead of them as they step into the shoes of a member of Parliament and see for themselves the challenges that all elected members face on a day-to-day basis.”
A total of 89 young people - virtually mirroring Queensland’s 89 electorates - has been selected to ensure balanced representation in the 12th Youth Parliament ( see attached list ).
Ronan Lee, Parliamentary Secretary to Minister Pitt, will officially launch the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament today ( Saturday, 14 April ) at Parliament House.
“This exciting initiative gives young people the chance to learn more about democracy and the decision-making processes of the Queensland Parliament,” Mr Lee said.
“It also gives them the chance to improve their public speaking, debating and leadership skills. This program would certainly not be as successful as it is today without the level of commitment and enthusiasm shown by the participants and I congratulate them for their willingness and determination to make a positive impact in their communities.”
Mr Pitt said today’s Youth Parliament sitting coincided with the start of the 8th annual National Youth Week, which would continue until 22 April.
Media contacts: Ronan Lee, 0409 344 840 ( available for interviews today ) YMCA Youth Parliament Nicola Strohal 0409 594 877
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