Looking for a Youth MP
A year on from the general election, it is time to select a new group of MPs from around the country. But this group will be special. They will all be aged between 16 and 18, and will be members of the 2019 Youth Parliament.
Every three years the Youth Parliament provides young people with the opportunity to learn and share information about New Zealand’s democracy. Youth MPs are selected by current MPs to represent them, and perform a role aligned to that of a Member of Parliament as much as possible.
Parliament and government can appear complex, impenetrable, or even boring to those who do not understand how it works. Gaining knowledge of the parliamentary process can change the way you look at the world, and your role in making change in society. But the role is not just about politics, or Parliament. It will help develop skills in critical thinking, organisation, working with people and debating. It will also offer the opportunity to meet other young people from around the country who share an interest in making a difference.
The Youth Parliament programme will run from March 1 to August 31, the highlight being a two-day event at Parliament on July 16-17, when the Youth MPs meet to debate legislation in the House, sit on select committees and ask oral questions of ministers.
Exposure to these processes will enable the representatives to build confidence and skills, and enhance their understanding of the role of an MP and of the communities they represent.
Northland has great political representation. It has six MPs associated with the region, including myself and Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones as New Zealand First ministers at the heart of government.
I am keen to receive applications from young Northland residents who would like the opportunity to be my youth representative. I am looking for someone with a passion for justice, who will stand up for what they believe in, and is willing to take their message to the nation via the debating chamber.
We would like the Youth Parliament to attract applicants from all backgrounds. The cost of flights, accommodation and meals will be paid. You don’t have to be a student, but you must be aged 16-18 on October 26, 2018.
Applicants are asked to gather the views of their peers and incorporate these into a new policy they’d like to see adopted in New Zealand. This can be presented as a 600-word essay or in video format as a five- to 12-minute oral presentation. I look forward to hearing your ideas. Applications close on October 19, so be quick!
For more information on Youth Parliament 2019, and how you or a young person you know can get involved, visit the Ministry of Youth Development website; applications and queries can be directed to Winston.peters@parliament.govt.nz or Marion.walsh@parliament.govt.nz
"I am looking for someone with a passion for justice, who will stand up for what they believe in, and is willing to take their message to the nation via the debating chamber. "