AS the first directly elected Youth Mayor of Mansfield, Scott Beasley has an impressive list of manifesto commitments that he intends to address during his year in office.
The same can be said for his deputy, Holly Papper.
Some people are likely to dismiss the concept as a pointless gimmick.
After all, civic affairs hardly register with the majority of adults.
Indeed, the word 'apathy' could almost have been th
ought up with local elections specifically in mind.
So what are the chances of two schoolchildren making a difference? And does it really matter that much anyway?
We think it does matter, and yes, we believe Scott and Holly will have a positive impact. Clearly they are enthusiastic, motivated and have definite views about the sort of issues that concern young people in Mansfield and District.
They may not succeed in radically changing the apathy of many adults towards the democratic process, but they have already demonstrated by their election that there is an encouraging level of interest among their peers.
It is the nurturing of the principle of engagement that's paramount. If the youth mayor initiative achieves this, it will have been well worthwhile.
But such an outcome will depend upon the electred representatives currently in charge of Mansfield's affairs sitting up, taking notice and responding positively to the views of the house owners, parents and workers of tomorrow.
Perhaps this is the real challenge.
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