Local Democracy Week 2015

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council welcomed Newry and Mourne Youth Council and Down Youth Council the Downshire Civic Centre, Council chamber on Monday 12 October 2015 to celebrate Local Demorcay Week 2015.The theme for 2015 is ‘Living together in multicultural societies: respect, dialogue, interaction.

The event, organised through the Council’s Good Relations, included a visit to the Council Chamber where young people were welcomed by Chairperson Councillor Naomi Bailie and several local elected representatives. The evening brought together Newry and Mourne Youth Council and the Down Youth Council for their first meeting which, is hoped, will create sustainable partnerships for the benefit of the District.

The event gave the young people an opportunity to present to Council the work that they have been involved with over the past 12 months and the future plans for both groups. Young people were also given the opportunity to discuss issues around social inclusion, diversity and challenging misconceptions.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Naomi Bailie said, “Living together in multicultural society starts with mutual respect afterall integration is everyones business and everyone’s responsibility.”

Full details of these and other events organised in the district can be found on the Council’s Corporate website (www.newrymournedown.org) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/nmdcouncil).

Photo caption: Pictured at the Downshire Civic Centre on Monday 12 October are members of the Newry and Mourne, and Down Youth Councils and elected members Patrick Brown, Colin McGrath, Council Chair Naomi Bailie, and Billy Walker. The Youth Councils were invited by the Chairperson as part of Local Democracy Week.