21 June 2007

Cr Hayley Wain – Wellington City Councillor
Cr Jami-Lee Ross – Manukau City Councillor

Youthful Councillors Back Lower Voting Age

Youthful representatives on two of New Zealand’s largest city councils are lending their support to MP Sue Bradford’s private members bill aimed at lowering the voting age to 16.

Wellington City Councillor Hayley Wain and Manukau City Councillor Jami-Lee Ross were both elected in 2004 at the age of 18 and believe young people can make a strong contribution in the public arena.

"This is an excellent move, it will be sending a message to the young people of New Zealand that their views are important and valued" says Miss Wain. "Young people at 16 are mature enough to make a number of decisions for themselves and the right to vote should be another choice."

“Young people are an important part of society and are the future of this country” says Mr Ross. “Lowering the voting age to 16 would prove to young people that they are valued citizens and that their contribution to New Zealand does matters. This increased level of inclusion would also foster young people to act more responsibly”

The two councillors both agree that the number of people aged under 35 that vote is extremely low at about 20%. They believe getting to people earlier in life and educating them that voting is the basis of democratic participation is the best way to show young people that the political system is relevant to them.

"In light of recent events that have involved youth and generated wide spread debate it is important that those directly affected can have their say” says Miss Wain. "Unfortunately at times youth get a bad rap due to a small minority causing problems, but the majority of youth are mature enough to make sensible decisions."

Mr Ross points to the fact that 16 and 17 year olds can already drive a car, get married, work adult jobs and pay taxes is proof that younger people are capable of taking on the responsibility of voting.

“16 and 17 year olds often have strong opinions about issues that affect them such as education, the environment, and New Zealand’s lack of affordable housing. At the moment these young people have no voice on determining the political leaders that make these decisions for them.”

Miss Wain and Mr Ross are backing Sue Bradford’s Bill because it will empower youth to participate in the democratic process and promote self determination for them. They are also very encouraged that the Bill would also see an increased level of civic education in secondary schools.

Miss Wain and Mr Ross are now aged 21 and are standing for re-election in October this year. They both encourage other young people interested in politics to consider standing for their local council or community board.

“The last 3 years as city councillors have been very full on, yet very fulfilling for us. Being councillors at a young age has certainly been a learning curve, but we are glad we took on the challenge.

“Young people in Wellington and Manukau have representation in local government and we hope more young people will be putting their hand up to stand this year.”

ENDS

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