Election letters 2019 / An opportunity to shape their own future
For many young people in Shetland, including my youngest son, the by-election on 29 August will be the first time they’ve had the opportunity to vote.
Lowering the voting age to 16 for Scottish elections has been a key achievement of the SNP government and I’ve seen more young people inspired to get involved in politics thanks to the change.
Across Scotland, we’ve seen young people taking part in the schools’ climate change demonstrations – campaigning for a better future. This month, first time voters aged 16 and 17 need to make their voices heard in Shetland.
By now everyone should have received a polling card. If you have not it may be that you are not registered to vote and may face disappointment on polling day. If I could take this opportunity to notify the young people of Shetland that, if they have not already done so, they should register to vote online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote by the 13th of August (next Tuesday).
It is an easy process; all you need is your National Insurance number and a few minutes. It would be very helpful if parents or guardians, schoolteachers and political candidates of all persuasions could remind first time voters in their care of their rights.
This by-election is an opportunity for young Shetlanders to shape not just their own future, but Scotland’s future.
Iain Malcolmson
Convener Shetland SNP
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.