The event, which is being held at
the University of Wolverhampton on Friday (7th February 2013), is an
opportunity for teachers to hear from MEPs about their roles as Members of the
European Parliament, and how they attempt to represent their constituents.
The overall aim is to arm
teachers with more information about the role of MEPs and the European Union so
they can discuss the subject with the pupils they teach.
Just 15% of 18-24 year olds voted
in the last European Elections, held in June 2009.
The West Midlands region is currently
represented by seven MEPs, and the six other representatives for the area were invited
to speak on the day.
Nikki Sinclaire is the ONLY MEP to accept the invitation.
Nikki Sinclaire said,
“This event represented a unique
opportunity to meet with local teachers and to help them expand on their
knowledge of the EU and the role of an MEP, in the hope that they can pass on
this information to their students.
We have a real problem in getting
young people to engage with politics, and these events are of increasing
importance to tackle this problem.
There are seven representatives
from the region, yet only I am the only MEP who has found time in the schedule
to meet with this group”.
Nikki added,
“Meeting my constituents is my
top priority, especially in areas where we are seeking to raise awareness of
what MEPs are supposed to do. When things like this happen, it only reinforces
the stereotype that MEPs do nothing.
I do lots of college and school
visits, and I’m often told that they struggle to get Politicians in to speak to
students and staff. Politicians should be working for the people, and this is a
vital part of our job”.
###ENDS###
Nikki Sinclaire MEP is available
for further comment and interview
Please contact Nikki Sinclaire
MEP directly on 07941 461 255 or contact Nicole Carroll at the Office of Nikki
Sinclaire MEP on 0121 359 5933/ 07974 233 902
