Junior Ministers Listen To Young People's Views

Around 25 young people, aged between14 and 16, met with the Ministers at the Stormont Hotel to put forward their hopes for the future. These ranged from wishing for a fair and open society to wanting a better place to live in.

Jeffrey Donaldson said he welcomed the opportunity to directly engage with the young people: "We have a commitment to children and young people in Northern Ireland and opportunities for them to participate directly are extremely worthwhile.

"We want to improve the lives of all children and young people and so we must ensure that they are involved every step of the way and that their views and opinions are taken on board."

Gerry Kelly said it was vital that the government listened to young people: "Today's event is very informative and will help us to deliver on what we want for the future and that it is best suited for today's youth and their needs.

"We want a better future for our children and young people here. We will not only consider their views ourselves but also share them with our Ministerial colleagues."