Alliance Youth Chair Stephen Martin has sent his congratulations to Councillor Ian Parsley, his predeceasor as Chair of the Alliance Party’s youth wing, following his unanimous election as Deputy Mayor of North Down.

Stephen Martin stated ‘I am delighted at Ian’s election as Deputy Mayor of North Down. Ian Parsley proved a highly successful Chair of Alliance Youth, leading our youth wing from 2003 through to 2007, engineering a period of revival and success. I believe it was fitting that his election was witnessed by a number of Alliance Youth members who made the trip to Bangor to see our former Chief take up his new role.’

Stephen continued, ‘Elected as a Councillor for Holywood in the 2005 Council elections, Ian had the courage of his convictions and gained a second seat for Alliance in his ward. An example of how young people can make a impact in electoral politics, Ian has brought true commitment and dedication to his Council activites and I have no doubt that he will serve the people of North Down to the best of his considerable ability. I wish Councillor Parsley every success for the year ahead.’

Alliance Youth Chair Stephen Martin today commended the Health Promotion Agency following their launch of a new campaign aimed at encouraging young men to recognise the importance of good mental health but urged the need for the Executive to resource support services adequately and targeted in such a way that those in trouble can avail of quality professional help when they need it.

Stephen commented, ‘Perhaps it is a cultural attitude but us guys tend to be bottlers! It is not the done thing for a young lad to confide in his friends, when things are beginning to get on top of him.’

‘Facts speak for themselves. Recent studies show that 72% of suicide victims are male with young men in and around my age, from 15 to 24 years old, are over three times more likely than a girl of the same age to commit suicide.’

‘There are families and communities across Northern Ireland that know only too well the tragic cost of what happens when mental health issues spiral into something much more terrifying. Talking your problems out is not a sign of weakness. You will not get mocked. People will not think any less of you by opening up. By getting these things off your chest, you’ll end up lifting what previously seemed a huge burden. So lads, what are you waiting for?’

Alliance Youth Chair Stephen Martin today hailed the stunning nomination of Senator Barack Obama of Illinois as the Democratic Party’s nominee for President of the United States. Senator Obama clinched his Party’s nomination late last night as one of the most nail-biting American primary seasons in history ended.

Stephen commented: ‘Senator Barack Obama burst onto the scene with a memorable speech which vowed the Democratic National Convention back in 2004. Elected to the United States Senate in November of that year, Senator Obama has worked since then to advocate a progressive agenda especially in international affairs with key legislative successes including bipartisan bills on nuclear terrorism and climate change in only a short time in national politics.’

‘Given that, Senator Obama’s ability to inspire a whole generation of young people not just in the United States but internationally as well has been beyond extraordinary. Today I send my congratulations to Alliance Youth’s partners, the Young Democrats of America, and their Chair, David Hardt, in the selection of their Presidential nominee and best wishes as they work towards victory in November’s general election.’