The search is on for an energetic, passionate young person to become the voice of Coromandel's youth in the 2016 Youth Parliament.

Local MP Scott Simpson is calling on all young people, aged 16 to 18, across the electorate who believe they've got what it takes to become the Coromandel Youth MP to get involved.

Local MP Scott Simpson is calling on young people, aged 16 to 18, who are interested in parliamentary life to apply to become the 2016 Coromandel Youth MP. Photos: MYD

The selection process will take the form of a speech competition and Scott says it is an an exciting opportunity for all young people interested in parliamentary life.

The Coromandel Youth MP will join 121 other young people from around the country in Wellington on July 19-20, 2016.

'Youth Parliament is as close as possible to the real thing. Youth MPs will debate legislation, sit on select committees and ask oral questions of Ministers,” says Scott. 'It is a unique chance to get first-hand experience of how Parliament works and to bring the views of your community straight to the decision makers in Government.”

To be considered, candidates will need to deliver a three minute speech on a set subject to a panel that includes Scott and up to three community representatives.

The selection will take place in Thames on Saturday, October 10.

'I want to hear from young people who are willing to get out and seek the views, opinions and ideas of their peers and represent them in Parliament. They need to be good communicators and passionate about youth issues,” adds Scott.

The Youth MP will hold their position from January 25 until July 25, 2016. During this time they are expected to actively engage with their community to gain an understanding of the concerns and ideas of youth in the Coromandel area.

Young aspiring journalists aged 16 to 24 years can also apply to become a Youth Press Gallery member. Further information is available via the Youth Press Gallery website.

Application forms are now available in schools, youth organisations and from Scott's Electorate Office at 614 Pollen St, Thames.

For more information phone 07-868-3529, email [email protected] or visit www.youthparliament.govt.nz

WHAT IS THE YOUTH PARLIAMENT?

The Youth Parliament is organised by the Ministry of Youth Development and is held once every Parliamentary term.

It was established in 1994 to mark the 20th anniversary of the lowering of the voting age to 18 years.

The aim of the Youth Parliament is to give young New Zealanders the opportunity to gain and understanding of the parliamentary and government decision making process.

It is also an opportunity for MPs to learn about the issues affecting young people today and their aspirations and ideas for moving out nation forward.

Coromandel MP Scott Simpson. Photo: File