UK Youth Parliament NI elections
The first ever elections to the UK Youth Parliament in Northern Ireland are currently in full swing! There are 54 candidates across 18 constituencies all campaigning to be the next MYP for their area.
Voting opened on 7th February and will run until 7th March before the results are announced and the new MYPs appointed on March 11th.
Anyone aged 11-18 is eligible to vote in a constituency in which they either live, work or attend school. Voting takes place online at www.ukypni.co.uk.
In the first week of polling, over 4000 votes have been recorded.
Elections will now be held every year and are organised by the British Youth Council and the Northern Ireland Youth Forum who run the programme in partnership.
Martin McAuley, Chair of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum said:
“We are delighted that so many young people have put themselves forward this year for the 18 seats. Early polling numbers reflect the appetite for involvement in the democratic process among young people. I wish all the candidates success as they campaign in the coming weeks.”
Ben Mallon, BYC Trustee from Northern Ireland said:
“It is great to see so many candidates from across the communities within Northern Ireland. We hope as many young people as possible will vote in these elections, giving Members of the Youth Parliament a real mandate to represent them.”
Visit the 2013 Northern Ireland UKYP Elections site for more information or email Claire@niyf.org for specific queries