Taylor Sincock 12/07/2013 Youth Parliament

A Taupo youth MP will take on a debate around New Zealand’s primary production industry at this week’s Youth Parliament.

Eighteen year-old Stella Ivory represents National MP Louise Upston and is part of the primary production select committee, which will question if the country can afford to become free range.

The St Peter’s Cambridge student believes the cost is a realistic option for the country.

“Despite cage farming being the most cost effective way to produce animal goods, it is extremely inefficient for the environment, for the animals themselves, and even for the consumers, because free range products are not only more ethical, but there are more health benefits.”

Ivory says it is time for New Zealand to be “more hard” on changing farming practices.

“Not only will it help solve many of New Zealand's environmental issues, but it will contribute to a much more aware, active group of consumers, which is less driven by a monetary drive.

“The first step to this is more marketing, so that people understand where they are getting there animal goods from, and reminding them that they make choices every time they buy it.”

Youth Parliament happens every three years to show 121 youth MPs from around New Zealand how the decision making process works through practical select committees and a mock bill debate.

This year’s mock bill looks at electoral reform.

One aspect of reform proposes lowering the voting age to 17-years-old.

Ivory says she is interested to find out if 17-year-olds in her community actually want to vote.

“Some young people are not informed enough to know how to or to want to vote,” she said.

ENDS

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