FG MEP welcomes new EU Youth in Action Partnership programme

Jim Higgins Fine Gael MEP for Ireland Northwest has welcomed the European Union's new initiative entitled 'Youth in Action' Partnerships. This new programme will be regulated by regional or local public bodies across the EU with Léargas responsible for regulating the programme in Ireland.

The 'Youth in Action' programme aims to; promote young peoples active citizenship, foster mutual understanding between young people in different countries. The action plan aims to increase the mobility of young people by supporting youth exchanges. This allows groups of young people to host or be hosted by a group from another country and will help breakdown cultural differences while at the same time fostering new relationships between people that would never meet or learn about different societies or cultures.

Mr. Higgins said that this plan will "Help to break down barriers and make Europe more accessible for its younger citizens which is of vital importance as we need the next generation to be more aware of how important the EU is and what they can do to influence the EU so it best reflects their feelings and represents the citizens views".

Mr. Higgins has also welcomed the European Voluntary Service (EVS) initiative. EVS supports transitional voluntary service of young people, both within and outside the European Union. Mr. Higgins says that this plan is very "innovative and will help people most in need".

Mr. Higgins also added as a result of these initiatives it is now "Easier for Europeans to be more involved in the European Union as active citizens and as worthwhile volunteers".