National MP Aaron Gilmore is calling for applications from motivated local young Kiwis who would be interested in coming to Parliament and getting their voice heard during 6-7 July as part of Youth Parliament 2010.

Youth Parliament 2010 is an exciting opportunity and is open to young New Zealanders aged 16 – 18 years old who want to represent young people’s views and engage in robust and often lively debates with Ministers and Members of Parliament.

“I want to hear from young people who have a passion for the future of New Zealand and are willing to stand up and have their voice heard and talk to me and my colleagues about their hopes, dreams and ideas,” says Mr Gilmore.

“Perhaps out there in our community is the next John Key.”

In May 2010, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Hon Paula Bennett, will announce the Youth Parliament 2010 Bill to be considered and topics of inquiry.

Youth Parliament 2010 is a joint initiative of the Minister of Youth Affairs and the Speaker of the House of Representatives and is organised by the Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Office of the Clerk, the Parliamentary Service and New Zealand’s 122 Members of Parliament.

Anyone living in the 8083, 8061 or 8062 postcode area who is interested in becoming a Youth MP should contact Aaron Gilmore at aaron.gilmore@national.org.nz with a one page essay on ‘Why I would like to go to Parliament’. You can also send your applications to PO Box 18809, New Brighton, Christchurch 8641. Closing date for applications is Friday 26 February.

More details can be obtained from The Ministry of Youth Development on 0508 FOR MYD (367 693) or beheard@youthparliament.govt.nz