Student MLAs Debate Access to Emergency Care, Off-shore Oil

Nova Scotia high school students will learn about the opportunities and challenges faced by Nova Scotia's elected officials as part of the eighth annual Model Legislature. The event, organized by the Department of Education, begins today, May 28, and continues until Sunday, May 30.

"Today's students are the leaders of tomorrow," said Education Minister Marilyn More. "The Model Legislature is a fun and educational way for students to learn about politics in Nova Scotia, and how their provincial government works."

The student MLAs, representing each of Nova Scotia's 52 constituencies, will divide into caucuses to debate mock bills on access to emergency care and drilling offshore oil.

As part of the weekend's events, students will see many aspects of life at Nova Scotia's legislature: how decisions are made and how they are communicated to Nova Scotians. Students will also attend a workshop on the role of the media and communications professionals.

"This event is an excellent way to get students excited and engaged in politics," said Jean LaRoche, a reporter with CBC radio. "It also serves as a reminder of the importance of voting."

Model Legislature has been held every spring since 2003.