News release
Office of the Secretary of State
(Rural Development)(Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario)
NATIONAL RURAL YOUTH NETWORK COUNCIL SELECTED
OTTAWA, May 30, 2003 - The Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State (Rural Development) (Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario) today confirmed the appointment of Amy Higgins of Quispanpsis, New Brunswick, as one of 13 new representatives to the council of the National Rural Youth Network (NRYN).
The NRYN, currently a 165-member organization of youths between the ages of 18 and 29 who represent rural, remote and northern communities across the country, was launched at the National Rural Conference in April 2002. Its goals are to provide a forum for youth to learn from one another, connect with peers and share information. The council will be preparing the first annual plan for the network, including how to build membership, and members will also be providing input into various government policies and initiatives. NYRN council members were selected by their peers at the recent National Rural Youth Conference in Orillia, Ontario.
"I'm pleased the Network's members represent the diversity and talents that are so prevalent in today's young people," said Mr. Mitchell. "They will help set the course for maintaining and improving life for youth living in our rural and remote communities. If these young people are any indication, our future is in good hands."
Amy Higgins, 19, is currently studying animal science at Nova Scotia Agricultural College. She has been involved with the 4H Program for the last 10 years.
She is presently working on organizing a provincial rural youth conference to ensure that her rural peers get involved and have the opportunity to voice their concerns and beliefs.
"I am honoured to represent my province on the National Rural Youth Network Council," says Ms Higgins. "I see the network as a chance to meet and get to know other youth, like me, who come from all the different rural communities we find in our country."
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For more information, please contact:
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Christine Aquino Press Secretary Office of the Secretary of State (613) 759-1085 |
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Media Relations Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Ottawa (613) 759-7972 |
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Keith Cossey Senior Policy Adviser, Atlantic Canada (902) 426-2937 cosseyk@agr.gc.ca |
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