Student MLAs Debate Clean Energy, Voting Age

Nova Scotia high school students are debating the use of clean energy and lowering the voting age as part of the sixth annual Model Legislature. The event, organized by the Department of Education, begins today, May 23, and continues until Sunday, May 25.

The student MLAs, representing each of Nova Scotia's 52 constituencies, will divide into caucuses to debate and vote on the mock bills at Province House.

"Model Legislature offers students a hands-on opportunity to learn about the challenges and opportunities faced by the men and women who work as their elected representatives," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "Students will see many different aspects of life at Nova Scotia's legislature, how decisions are made, and how they are communicated to Nova Scotians."

Ms. Casey will meet the student MLAs and speak with them about the importance of young Nova Scotians getting involved in public affairs.

As part of the weekend's events, students will attend a workshop on the role of the media and organize their own news conferences addressing the mock bills. The students will also get public speaking and debating tips from speaking coach Brian Casey.

Model Legislature has been held every spring since 2003.