Nova Scotia Sends Delegates to National 4-H Conference

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--Nova Scotia Sends Delegates to National 4- H Conference

Seven 4-H members from Nova Scotia are heading to Ottawa to learn about Canada's political processes.

The 34th annual National 4-H Citizenship Seminar will be held from April 8 to 14.

Nova Scotia's delegates will join about 55 4-H members from across the country to examine their rights, roles and responsibilities as Canadian citizens.

"Many 4-H members are leaders in their communities," said Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Chris d'Entremont. "This conference offers them the opportunity to look at national issues that could impact them on a broader level."

The theme of this year's event is Borders and Opportunities. Delegates will find out how youth can influence the political process and the political parties that make up the Canadian government.

4-H members will also learn more about current issues the federal government is working on in relation to immigration. They will carry out a parliamentary style debate on immigration by developing and defending an opinion on the future direction Canada should take to ensure personal security while recognizing human rights and the economic opportunities of international trade.

"Members who attend the National 4-H Citizenship Seminar always come home with a renewed pride in being Canadian," said Elizabeth Crouse, manager, 4-H and rural organizations. "It's great that the 4-H program offers this unique experience to so many 4-H members across Canada."

The delegates attending from Nova Scotia are Kathleen Bonnar, Cape Breton County; Amanda MacLellan, Pictou County; Jessica Earl, Cumberland County; Anthony Walters, Lunenburg County; Ashley Charlton, Annapolis County; Katie Knowles, Hants County; and Nicole Sinclair, Guysborough County.

The seminar includes presentations by guest speakers, participation in discussion groups, a visit to the Supreme Court of Canada and Parliament Hill, observation of Question Period, participation in a citizenship ceremony of new Canadians, as well as social activities, tours and lunch with their members of Parliament.