Scottish Government Debate: Scottish Rural and Islands Youth Parliament

Mairi Gougeon S6M-11896 That the Parliament acknowledges the important contribution that the Scottish Rural and Islands Parliament (SRIP), including the Rural and Islands Youth Parliament, makes, particularly in influencing future policy development; notes that the SRIP, which held its fifth gathering in November 2023, is unique in the UK; welcomes the opportunity that young people from rural Scotland now have to engage with the Scottish Ministers; recognises the value and importance of hearing the experience and ideas of young people who live and work in Scotland’s rural and island communities to inform Scottish Government policy priorities and of ensuring that their voice is heard, and welcomes the involvement and commitment of youth and adult volunteer delegates who made both parliaments a success. Rachael Hamilton S6M-11896.2 As an amendment to motion S6M-11896 in the name of Mairi Gougeon (Scottish Rural and Islands Youth Parliament), insert at end “, and notes that the Scottish Rural and Islands Youth Parliament raised a number of issues affecting young people in rural Scotland, including the Scottish Government’s lack of long-term commitment to the rural and island environment, the lack of mental health support for people in the Highlands and Islands, a transport system that is not fit for purpose and a housing sector that fails to meet the needs of the population.” Rhoda Grant S6M-11896.1 As an amendment to motion S6M-11896 in the name of Mairi Gougeon (Scottish Rural and Islands Youth Parliament), insert at end “; considers that access to health services, homes and opportunities are essential to young people in rural and island areas; believes that young people who live in these areas are best placed to advise on what is needed, and urges the Scottish Government to address the issues highlighted and put in place a strategy and timeline to address them, as it is vital to halt depopulation and retain young people in rural areas."