Youth Panel

Press Release

21 June 2010

YP 03/09/10

WALKING IN AN MLA’s SHOES

Northern Ireland Assembly Youth Panel member, Darren O’Reilly had a unique opportunity to gain insight into political life today as he spent a day shadowing the Minister for Regional Development, Conor Murphy, MLA.

The Northern Ireland Youth Panel is made up of 30 young people who will to help develop the look, feel and purpose of a youth assembly [1]. Every panel member will get the chance to shadow an MLA to enhance their understanding of how the Northern Ireland Assembly works and the role of Ministers and MLAs.

Conor Murphy MP, MLA Minister for Regional Development said:  "I fully support this initiative and hope that Darren gained some valuable experience and insight into the work of the Assembly. This provides a unique opportunity for the young people on the Assembly Youth Panel to see legislation being debated, Ministers being questioned and gain a first hand understanding into the work of the devolved government. It's important that we support and encourage our young emerging leaders of tomorrow today and as part of my Department’s policy on Corporate Social Responsibility we are committed to doing just that."

Darren O’Reilly, Youth Panel member said: “This has been a great opportunity and I am very grateful to the Minister for taking the time to explain his role as an MLA and as a Minister. To spend time with a Minister and see him in action during an Assembly debate has been fascinating. It will be invaluable to me in my role on the Assembly Youth Panel giving me a better idea of how a youth assembly might work.”

The Youth Panel will be holding a series of meetings around Northern Ireland in the coming months, gathering the thoughts and views of local people, businesses and organisations on matters relating to the formation, membership and workings of a youth assembly.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

[i] The Youth Panel is made up of 30 young people and will meet regularly around Northern Ireland over the course of a year. They will work with the Northern Ireland Assembly Commission to develop plans for a youth assembly. It is an opportunity for young people to make a real difference and secure a stronger voice in issues that concern them, as well as gain experience and develop skills for the future.

Darren O'Reilly, member of NI Assembly Youth Panel spends the day shadowing the Minister for Regional Development, Conor Murphy MP, MLA

For further information please contact:

Jennifer Pleavin
Communications Officer
Northern Ireland Assembly
Phone: 028 9052 1606
Mobile: 07502 379339
Email: jennifer.pleavin@niassembly.gov.uk