Huron-Bruce MPP urges youth to apply for Model Parliament Program

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson is encouraging students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 with a passion for politics, to submit their applications for the Legislative Assembly of Ontario's annual three-day Model Parliament Program which runs Feb. 21-23, 2018.
 
This educational experience brings 107 students from across Ontario, to Queen's Park, representing the province's ridings. Participants engage in several workshops and presentations, and meet key figures in provincial parliament. Many alumni claim that the highlight is having the opportunity to sit in the Legislative Chamber and participate in a mock debate.
 
"It's always inspiring to see the passion these special delegates bring to Queen's Park," says Thompson. "Not only do the students, themselves, gain skills in communication, leadership and knowledge about the legislative process, but we, as legislators, get to hear first-hand the innovative ideas these young people have, and their enthusiasm ultimately inspires the work we do."
 
The Model Parliament Program is one of the many youth programs the Legislative Assembly of Ontario holds designed to inform citizens about the parliamentary practices and traditions in Ontario. Interested students are invited to apply by the deadline of Oct. 30.  
 
"Young people have an incredible way of thinking and problem-solving," says Thompson. "Providing forums, such as this, helps young leaders discover their voice and, hopefully, will inspire them to pursue politics and continue to make a difference. In order to ensure a thriving future in Ontario, we must focus on empowering our youth to participate in unique events like this."
 
For more information, or to apply to the program, visit discoveryportal.ontla.on.ca/en/youth-programs/model-parliament, contact modelparliament@ola.org, or call 416-325-0025.