Year 12 and 13 students from across Jersey will be coming together for the 24th Annual Youth Assembly on Tuesday 5th April.
The event, which will be held in the States Chamber, will provide young participants with an opportunity to question Ministers and Assistant Ministers about a range of topics – from the present Housing crisis to funding the new Hospital – and to learn about the way Jersey’s parliament works.
The event mirrors a States meeting as closely as possible in order to provide students with first-hand experience of the Assembly. The aim is to promote a clear understanding of how Jersey’s political system works.
Students will be given a forum to express their views and contribute to formal political debate in the Island. As well as developing valuable skills, the Youth Assembly aims to inspire young people to take a more active role in the democratic process in future and to realise that they can make a difference in our community.
A wide range of topics have been selected for debate by students, following a robust Question Time which will include 15 minutes of questions without notice to the Chief Minister. This year’s topics include whether party politics is a good thing for Jersey and how the high cost of living in the Island could be addressed.
Students from four of Jersey’s post-16 colleges will participate in this year’s Assembly – Jersey College for Girls, Victoria College, Beaulieu and Hautlieu.
The Bailiff will formally open the event and Chair the question period. Deputy Kirsten Morel, Vice Chair of the CPA Jersey Branch, will then preside over the Assembly and the Deputy Greffier of the States, Lisa Hart, will act as the Clerk. The annual event is sponsored by the Jersey Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).
