Mock debate hones skills of tomorrow’s politicians

Premier Alden McLaughlin in the Legislative Assembly

(CNS): Students from across the country were trying out their potential as future political leaders Monday when they took part in the 8th annual Youth Parliament at the Legislative Assembly to mark Commonwealth Day. As he gave the welcome address to the students, Premier Alden McLaughlin said the debate would help them “understand political participation and parliamentary democracy through practical experience”.

He said the country’s leaders had to give young people an opportunity to “acquire or improve on the many necessary skills required not only in running the affairs of state, but in daily commerce and indeed life such as debate, presentation, public speaking, research and organisational skills”.

As the 25 students prepared to debate motions on Sunday trading and a mentoring programme, McLaughlin said he was expecting some lively debate as they went “toe to toe” over the subjects.

Pointing to the demographics of the Commonwealth, where 60% are younger than 30, McLaughlin said governments could not have honest discussions about the future without taking into account young people’s needs, aspirations and challenges.

“This government, as well as the Commonwealth, sees young people as assets who should be empowered to realise their potential and contribute fully to national development,” he said.

Leshontae Missick served as premier, while the speaker of the House was played by Henry Hill and the opposition leader’s role was taken on by Shaquille Henry, all of whom had spent time shadowing the premier at the Government Administration Building recently.

Aquinnah Ebanks, the 4th Elected Member for West Bay for the day, moved the government motion on Sunday trading and Mckayla Cupid, the 1st Elected Member for Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, seconded it. On the opposition benches 1st Elected Member for George Town, Shaquille Henry, moved the Private Members Motion for a Mentoring Programme in Public High Schools supported by Danyelle Williams, who was playing the part of the 6th Elected Member for George Town.

Meanwhile, past Youth Parliamentarians Jamal Young and Amber Caum were representing the Cayman Islands in London for the Commonwealth celebration at Westminster