N.L. Youth Parliament debates hot-button issues in House of Assembly

There's a heated debate on the floor of the House of Assembly, but this time, the youth are having their say. The importance of Youth Parliament is that we create a space for delegates from across the province to come, express their opinion, and really learn about democracy. Participants say that the experience has made them feel more comfortable public speaking and has helped build confidence. Confidence in knowing that you actually can, that you do have a voice, and that your voice matters, and that you can have a meaningful difference. I think that is the biggest barrier, I think, for youth. No matter what your age, if you're passionate about politics and you're passionate about your province or your country, I do believe that there's nothing that should stop you from putting your name forward and really getting out there. It's important for youth to be involved because we are the ones that are coming up and we're going to be the ones that are taking charge. And our opinions still need to be heard because we do have opinions and we're being affected by all the decisions that are being made. debate topics at the week-long session ranged from transportation to Churchill Falls power but on a Churchill Falls front i will say that there was a lot of support from our delegates i think youth were um they were excited to get involved and have a voice at it because it's going to be an agreement that's going to stretch into our futures and affect our generations some participants still had concerns i'm concerned about our indigenous groups and also the wildlife because for our indigenous groups wildlife and our natural resources are one of the main important things this is their land this is where they um they've always been so they're so used to being like fishing and hunting in these areas so if that's taken away then where are they going to go what are they going to do just like in the real session of the house a motion to support the new Churchill Falls Agreement passed at the 60th session of Newfoundland and Labrador's Youth Parliament. John Harris, CBC News, St. John's.