Stevenson and Allard Congratulate New MSYPs

Following the recent election of Travis Beattie to represent Banffshire and Buchan Coast at the Scottish Youth Parliament, local MSP Stewart Stevenson praised the level of post-Referendum youth engagement and encouraged it to continue. He was joined by Christian Allard, MSP for the North East who submitted a motion to the Scottish Parliament to congratulate the winners on their success.

The Scottish Youth Parliament is the democratically elected voice of Scotland’s young people. Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) are committed to ensuring young people are heard by the decision makers of Scotland and to campaign on issues which matter most to Scotland’s youth. Seventeen MSYPs have been elected to represent the North East of Scotland following elections which took place during March.

Mr Stevenson and Mr Allard both praised MSYPs for their role at the forefront of youth engagement in the North East.

Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson said:

“Last year’s Referendum and the lowering of the voting age for it engaged a whole new generation of voters with the political process and I’ve been delighted with how that has carried on post-Referendum.

“I congratulate those who have been successful in getting elected as Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament but, just as importantly, would encourage those who were unsuccessful on this occasion to continue engaging with the democratic process.”

Christian Allard, MSP for North East Scotland, added:

“It is fantastic to see so many youngsters across the North East so politically engaged.

“There were plenty of candidates that stood for election at the Scottish Youth Parliament – well done to all those who participated and to those who were successful.

“I am sure the 17 members elected to represent areas throughout the North East will work hard to progress youth engagement in the region.”