The young people of Derry have been urged to become involved in the Foyle Youth Council by nominating potential members ahead of tomorrow’s closing date for submissions.
Mayor Martin Reilly
Mayor of Derry, Cllr Martin Reilly said the new joint initiative between Derry City Council and the Western Education and Library Board’s Youth Services, seeks to give young people across the Derry City Council area a voice in the decisions that affect them.
Encouraging relevant young people who could represent the youth of the city to come forward, he said: “The deadline for applications is tomorrow and we are encouraging people to download the application form now.
“The Youth Council initiative will give young people greater opportunities to have a voice in Council’s business by offering a forum in which Council can directly engage and listen to the views and opinions of young people.
“Ultimately the aim of the Youth Council is to advocate the rights and opinions of young people in order to influence positive change, and we are looking for people to sit on the Council who will be involved at the very heart of the decision making process.”
Mayor Reilly said the feedback from from existing and past members on the WELB Youth Council had been “fantastic.”
He added: “Participation enhances the individual’s personal development as well as rewarding members by opening doors and making contacts for future education and career opportunities.”
He concluded: “This new partnership approach between Council and WELB Youth Services will give members better access to decision makers and hopefully make the initiative more effective. Everyone is welcome to apply regardless of background, abilities or interests.”
For more information and an application form, go to: www.derrycity.gov.uk/youthcouncil the deadline for applications is 4.00pm to tomorrow.
Members of the Foyle Youth Council will be selected based on the principles of Section 75 legislation, which will see two representatives from each of the four neighbourhood renewal areas, two representatives from rural areas and 10 members from across the Derry City Council area forming the Youth Council. The target age group is 13-18 (aged 21 if disabled or being looked after).
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