Young people from across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon borough have been given a closer look at how local democracy works during a visit to the Council Chamber at Craigavon Civic Centre.
The event brought members of ABC Youth Voice together with elected representatives for discussions about local government, civic participation and the issues that matter to younger residents. Participants were aged between 15 and 21.
Young people put questions to councillors
Organised through a partnership involving Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s Community Development, Good Relations and Community Planning teams, alongside the Education Authority’s Youth Service, the event was designed to give young people a direct insight into how decisions are made in their communities.
Members of ABC Youth Voice met a number of elected representatives and learned more about the work carried out by local councillors and the responsibilities they hold on behalf of residents across the borough.
A question-and-answer session allowed participants to raise issues important to them, share their views and hear directly from councillors about the challenges and opportunities facing their communities.
Lord Mayor welcomes civic participation
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, said the event helped strengthen links between young people and their representatives.
“It is important that young people have opportunities to engage with local democracy and understand how decisions are made that affect their everyday lives. Events like this help strengthen connections between young people and their elected representatives, while giving councillors valuable insight into the issues that matter to younger generations. I was delighted to welcome ABC Youth Voice to the Council Chamber and to see their enthusiasm and thoughtful participation during the evening.”
Sarah Muldoon, Senior Youth Officer for Education Authority – Youth Services Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Area, said the Youth Voice programme aims to ensure children and young people are actively involved in decisions affecting their lives, rather than only being consulted.
“Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Youth Voice is committed to ensuring that children and young people are not only consulted but actively involved in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.”
She said Local Democracy Week gave participants the chance to engage directly with elected representatives, ask questions and experience democracy in action. Young people prepared questions, contributed their perspectives and took part in discussions about their communities.
Representatives from across the borough attend
The council said the programme used a child- and young-person-centred, rights-based approach. It added that the event supported the development of confidence, leadership and advocacy skills, helping young people contribute to their communities now and in the future.
The gathering included representatives from across all seven district electoral areas, with the aim of ensuring young people’s views were heard and reflected in decision-making.
Alderman Mark Baxter and councillors Kate Evans, Joy Ferguson, Keith Ratcliffe and Kyle Savage attended alongside Councillor O’Dowd.
The event was part-funded through The Executive Office District Council Good Relations Programme.