Local student joins push for voting age reduction to 16

AN Omagh student addressed a demonstration at Stormont on Tuesday as the Assembly voted in favour of lowering the voting age from 18 to 16.

Ryan Kearney, a student at South West College and member of West Tyrone Youth Parliament, was present in the Assembly chamber for the historic vote.

He also joined other under-18s in a demonstration outside Stormont, demanding the right to vote.

The motion, introduced by Sinn Féin and amended by the Alliance Party, called on the British Government to legislate the change. It also urged Education Minister, Paul Givan, to expand civic education to boost voter turnout and political engagement among young people.

“It was great to be in the chamber when the motion passed,” said Ryan. “I see no reason why 16- and 17-year-olds shouldn’t be allowed to vote. At that age, people can already drive, open a bank account, get a job or join the army. It seems illogical that someone in full-time employment can’t vote simply because they’re 16.”

He also stressed the importance of expanding civic education.

The South West College student added, “Currently, there isn’t enough understanding of politics and civic institutions, which leads to hostility and negativity toward politics. More knowledge will create a better-educated, more enthusiastic voter base.”

Sinn Féin Mid Tyrone councillor, Pádraigín Kelly called on the British Government to respect the Assembly’s decision by transferring the necessary powers to extend voting rights to 16- and 17-year-olds.

She said, “Young people should not be forced to depend on older voters to represent their distinct interests and varied values. Sinn Féin, along with others, tabled and successfully passed a motion in the Assembly calling for the vote to be extended to 16 and 17-year-olds.

“Labour’s own manifesto committed to votes at 16, so it should now either legislate for this or transfer the necessary powers to the Assembly so we can do it ourselves.”