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Climate change and mental health were among issues discussed

Young people who make up the new Northern Ireland Youth Assembly have said MLAs should "take a leaf out of our book" and return to government.

The 90 members, aged 13 to 17 years old, met at Stormont for the first time on Saturday.

Climate change and mental health were among issues discussed.

Lila

"We are wanting a change and we are wanting to see progress," Lila says

Youth assembly member Lila said it would be "much appreciated" if MLAs could "get back in there and listen to our ideas".

"Take a leaf out of our book and see that we are wanting a change and we are wanting to see progress," she said.

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has been blocking Stormont power-sharing since February 2022.

It has been protesting against post-Brexit trade arrangements between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

The 90 members of the youth assembly from across Northern Ireland mirror the number of assembly members.

During their two-year term, members will meet regularly in Northern Ireland's parliament buildings.

They will also participate in smaller committee meetings to discuss their ideas, views and recommendations in greater detail.

Ronan

"Decisions are made every day that affect our future," says Ronan

Ronan, another member, said the youth assembly was important as it "gives young people a voice".

"Decisions are made every day that affect our future and we need to be able to say if we approve of them," he said.

Alliance Assembly Commission Member John Blair presided over the sitting.

 

From BBC

 

 

 

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