YOUTH VIEWS… Karen McHugh
THE POLITICIANS have had their say, but just what engages young people here, and what would make them choose to vote?
24-year-old Karen McHugh from Tempo, who previously stood as a election candidate in 2008, said that she thinks there’s a real mix of opinions when it comes to young people and politics.
“I think like anything else there are mixed opinions, some young people aren’t interested while others have a strong interest.”
And, on issues facing young people, she said: “Mental health issues and related concerns, coping with suicidal thoughts and suicides in the local area, self harm, drugs and alcohol, anxiety, depression, the effects of bullying in all forms and the provision of support and services to deal with these issues in Fermanagh.”
She also spoke of ‘three Es’: education, employment and emigration.
Elaborating, she explained: “The quality and provision of education here in Fermanagh, employment opportunities locally and the increasing numbers of young people emigrating when suitable employment options aren’t available. Availability and provision of social activities and places to go/things to do locally can also be a concern for young people.”
Karen added that she feels it is important for politicians locally to be ‘approachable’ to young people.
“Clever use of social media during their election campaigns directed towards younger people would help – and if they were to make sure they’re approachable for young people and aware of at least some of the issues which are affecting young people here right now.
“For me it would be about a feeling of confidence in candidates, knowing what they stand for and believing they’ll do a good job representing the people of Fermanagh if elected.”
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