Could you represent Orkney in the Scottish Youth Parliament?

Young people in Orkney aged 14 to 25 have just one month to put themselves forward for election to the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP).

The ‘expressions of interest’ period closes on November 30 with elections taking place online between March 2 and March 13, 2015.

The Scottish Youth Parliament represents Scotland’s young people. Their democratically elected members listen to and recognise the issues that are most important to young people, ensuring that their voices are heard by the country’s decision makers.

There are three national sittings per year with two members elected for each constituency for a term of two years.

Ernie Skea, from the council’s community learning and development service said: “March will seem like a peedie while off, but candidates need to be signed up well in advance so that they can get the training and support they’ll need to represent young people in Orkney.

“We’re looking for enthusiastic young people to put themselves forward as candidates to become Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament. As an MSYP you will be elected to represent other young people in Orkney and make sure that their voice is heard in all the important decisions.

“The important thing is that you are passionate about representing young people in Orkney — it doesn’t matter if you’re not top of the class.”

If you’d like to find out more, please contact Ernie Skea at Orkney Islands Council on 873535 or email ernie.skea@orkney.gov.uk.

More information is also available at the SYP website.