Maginness launches young voter campaign

Thursday 21 May 2009

SDLP European Election candidate Alban Maginness MLA has encouraged young people to use their vote to make a difference in the forthcoming European election on June 4.

SDLP European Election candidate Alban Maginness MLA has encouraged young people to use their vote to make a difference in the forthcoming European election on June 4.

Launching an online competition to win tickets to see Beyoncé at the Odyssey in Belfast or a trip to the Oxegen festival, Mr Maginness pledged to make the needs of younger people a priority in the European Parliament.

He said: "In this election it is extremely important that young people use their vote to voice their concerns and needs on things that matter most to them.

"There are lots of good reasons for young people to vote SDLP.

"We are working incessantly to create jobs, build community relations across the North and protect our vulnerable environment.

"Unlike the other main parties, we are strongly pro-Europe and know the benefits that the European Parliament can have for young people living in Northern Ireland.

"We have a clear vision for Ireland's future - prosperity, reconciliation and equality for all.

"For the SDLP, politics is about delivering for people - not personal gain.

"I am standing in this election because I want to make a real difference.

"These are challenging times for us all, but our best days are ahead of us.

"Northern Ireland needs to be at the heart of Europe again. Only the SDLP can get us there because when we win, you win.

"The SDLP are using a range of social networking sites including facebook, youtube and twitter as well as other online communication tools in order to connect with younger voters.

"It is important to engage with this generation of voters and open up politics to everyone. For too long politics in the north has been a closed shop.

"I make a pledge to all young people that if they elect me to Europe I will work tirelessly for them. Their needs will always be my priority.

"A better future for us all will be my goal."

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

To win tickets to see Beyoncé at the Odyssey on 31 May or a trip to Oxegen 10-12 July visit www.albanforeurope.eu, watch the video and email your answer to albanforeurope@sdlp.ie. Entrants must include their name, address, date of birth and contact telephone number.