by Lesley Wilkinson
POLITICALLY aware students in Warrington were invited to the Town Hall to take part in the fourth annual speed debating event.
The Mayor Coun John Joyce opened the event and welcomed pupils from Priestley College and Great Sankey High School, together with members of the Youth Parliament and IMPACT.
Youngsters had the chance to question the Mayor, senior officers and councillor from all three political parties on the council.
The councillors and officers remained in their seats while the young people moved from table to table every three minutes, posing questions and discussing the issues that are important to them.
Leader of the council Coun Ian Marks said: “The speed debating evening was even more successful than in previous years. Thank you to those who took part for sharing their many and varied views.
“This is a wonderful way to engage the next generation of voters, and a great chance for councillors to hear their views.”
Students had a further chance to get involved in the democratic process by voting for their favourite birthday card design. The winner will be sent to all residents on their 18th birthday from January.
Picture: Youngsters pose their questions during the speed debating event.
Talking politics – at speed!
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About Author
Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
2 Comments
A great evening with lots of stretching questions at times it felt like being in the ring with Mike Tyson for a 3-minute round. Mind you I did ask for any difficult questions to be saved for the gentleman behind my right shoulder.
The students will be judging us all not only on what we said on the night but what we promised to deliver in the future when it’s their turn to vote.
Hob-nobbing with the Lib Dems. Settle?