asked the Minister for Labour whether he will outline the plans which his Department have for the implementation of international youth year 1985; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - International Youth Year.
666.
In January of this year I established a committee, known as the national committee for international youth year, to plan, stimulate, co-ordinate and assist activities for the year. The committee are representative of youth, Government, employer, trade union and vocational education interests.
In order to give a wide variety of interests an opportunity to participate in preparations for the year, an advisory council, representative of a large number of voluntary and statutory bodies, was established to support the national committee in their work.
The committee have established the following objectives for its campaign:
—To enhance an awareness of the situation of young people and the recognition of their rights and aspirations.
—To enourage greater participation by young people in community development.
—To promote a positive review by adults of their attitudes to young people through stimulating recognition of the existing social contribution and potential of youth.
—To invite the active involvement of adults in youth work and youth issues.
The committee are endeavouring to secure widespread action for the year at national and local levels. The main emphasis for the year is being placed on activities planned and organised at local level, with action at national level being mainly supportive in nature. I am glad to say that, at national level, youth and other organisations have formulated specific proposals for the year. Preparations by interested bodies at local level throughout the country are being facilitated by the vocational education committees.