Young parliamentarians wanted

YOUNG people in Shetland are being invited to put themselves forward to become potential members of the Scottish Youth Parliament.

Current isles MSYPs Kaylee Mouat and Kelvin Anderson are due to stand down in March, paving the way for new candidates to come forward.

Anyone living in Shetland aged between 14 and 25 can take part in the elections next year.

Shetland Islands Council’s youth services team will tour schools, colleges and the community over the next six weeks to encourage people to stand for election before the nominations deadline of 31 October.

MSYPs are democratically elected by their peers, and they attend three sittings of the parliament in Edinburgh each year, in addition to recognising the issues important to young people in their home region.

Mouat said being elected for consecutive two-year terms has developed her skills and self-confidence, as well as allowing her to represent Shetland on the mainland.

“The difference that you can make in Shetland as an MSYP is very rewarding,” she said.

“My time as an MSYP has been fantastic, I have had many opportunities to represent my constituency at a national level and have met with some amazing people.

“The skills I have developed during my two terms in the parliament will stay with me for life. I am a much more confident person and have enjoyed every minute of my four years. I would encourage anyone who is considering to stand, to go for it.”

Shetland MSP Tavish Scott also encouraged any young people interested in politics to put themselves forward for election.

“The elections to be Shetland’s MSYPs are a great opportunity to make the difference for young people across the islands,” he said.

“I have enjoyed working with Kaylee and Kelvin who have been excellent representatives for Shetland in the Scottish Youth Parliament. I encourage young Shetlanders to give these elections a go and get involved.

“The Scottish Youth Parliament is an invaluable way for MSPs to learn and understand the views of young people. Parliament is better for that perspective.”