Youth Engagement

As the youngest Unionist MLA at Stormont, I want to empower and equip young people with a voice to speak out on important matters, encourage positivity around Northern Ireland PLC and promote our place in the United Kingdom.

We must strive to develop a confidence in Unionism and that begins with our young people. They will be the custodians of the future of Northern Ireland and our precious Union. As an elected representative, I want to work toward leaving a legacy that sees us ‘pass on the baton’ effectively to the next generation.

I have always been keen to see youth development within the Party. Young Democrats and our student branches have played a huge role in developing the MLAs, MPs, and backroom staff that we now have. But this on its own is simply not enough. We must do more to give young people the tools, the platform and the confidence to promote the Union, learning from our past and looking to the future. Therefore, it is an exciting time to be taking on the DUP spokesperson’s role for ‘Promoting the Union with Young People and New Communities.’ Unionism is a broad house. People who live here, no matter their age or background, have a real part to play in the future of this country. This includes those who have come from other parts of the globe to make

Northern Ireland their home. It is vital that when Republicans and Nationalists try to rewrite the narrative, we can individually and collectively tell our story and take a stand for the Union.

If you feel you have ideas and would like to share those with me – please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Deborah Erskine

Deborah Erskine MLA Fermanagh & South Tyrone