Young People Set To Swap Classroom For Assembly

This initiative is one of many activities the two Ministers will undertake as part of a drive to ensure issues facing children and young people are kept high on the Executive's agenda in the next year.

Speaking at the meeting Junior Minister Kelly said: "For the first time ever young people will be sponsored by MLAs to take part in an Assembly debate, during the Easter holidays, on a topic relevant to their generation.

"As champions for children we are committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and that we adopt an integrated approach across government in tackling the many issues which face today's youth.

"Child poverty is a key priority for the Executive and we are committed to delivering excellent public services to improve children's life chances and help break cycles of deprivation as well as supporting parents so they can confidently guide their children through the various stages of life."