Renfrewshire hosts national Scottish Youth Parliament sitting

Young people from across Scotland gathered in Paisley Town Hall for the latest sitting of the Scottish Youth Parliament. 

The event brought together around 200 attendees from all over Scotland for a weekend of debate, training, and social activities. Young representatives engaged in discussions about Scotland’s future and passed motions aimed at shaping national youth policy. 

Attendees praised the weekend for its engaging debates, inclusive atmosphere, and smooth delivery, with thanks to OneRen staff for their support on the day. 

Ranging in age from twelve to twenty-five, the Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs) debated a wide array of national issues, including support for victims of sexual harassment, free school meals, lowering car insurance costs for young people, and addressing the risks posed by artificial intelligence. 

Renfrewshire was represented by five Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament: Daniela Onyewuenyi and Demian Karpenko for Paisley, Ameerah Kiani for Renfrewshire South, and Alistair Anderson and Isla Grimes for Renfrewshire North.    

MSYPs are elected by young people in their local area through a national voting process, giving them a mandate to represent their peers and campaign on the issues that matter most to them.   

The five MSYPs representing Renfrewshire said: “We’re glad that during our term we were able to facilitate an SYP Sitting. It’s great for people to see Renfrewshire in a positive light and see everything we have to offer. It was good to see so many young people from across Scotland in Paisley Town Hall championing young people’s rights and voices.”   

Renfrewshire’s successful bid to host the Scottish Youth Parliament sitting highlights the area’s strong commitment to youth voice, democracy, and promoting young people’s empowerment. Each sitting is hosted by a local authority, and Renfrewshire stood out thanks to its varied youth voice programme, which offers a wide range of opportunities for young people to get involved and make their voices heard.   

Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities and Housing Policy Board, added: “It was fantastic to see the Scottish Youth Parliament visit Renfrewshire. The day was filled with energy, ideas, and meaningful discussion. The young people showed real commitment to engaging with national issues and made the most of the opportunity to connect and collaborate. 

“We are committed to empowering young people and giving them real opportunities to shape their future. Through our youth voice programmes, we’re helping them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and engage with politics and local decision-making in meaningful ways. 

“This sitting showed the passion young people have for making a difference. We’re proud to support them and will continue working to ensure every young person in Renfrewshire has the chance to be heard and succeed.”