Lawrence Fontana, Isle of Wight Lib Youth/Lib Dem member shares this opinion article. Guest opinions doe not necessarily reflect the views of the publication. Ed
“Brexit means Brexit” Theresa May said upon her appointment as Prime Minister.
Although a vague statement, this has rightly concerned a lot of young people who voted overwhelmingly for Britain to remain in the EU. For many, it seems like doors are closing. The Erasmus study abroad programme and the right to live and work in Europe with ease are two things which young people hold dear.
As many people know, the Isle of Wight is a favourite destination to retire. People remember fondly the times they spent as a child playing on the beaches, camping in the woods or hiking the downs.
However, the years of splendid youth in the 1950s and 1960s on the Island are not the same dreams of young Islanders today. The world is a completely different place, and the ambitions of young people overwhelmingly reflect this. We are eager to travel, work abroad and experience the world without barriers.
Why I joined the Liberal Democrats
Freedom of movement and supporting the Erasmus scheme are two of the policies that inspired me to join the Liberal Democrats. The Liberal Democrats are calling on the government to reassure young people that these opportunities remain open to them. They are vital to ensuring Britain still has a prominent role in the world, and that British ideas, skills and values can be exported around the globe.
I feel that the Liberal Democrats are the best option for young people on the Isle of Wight.
Our MP Andrew Turner, has not had a good record on issues supported by young people. Not just on Britain’s membership of the European Union, but other issues. Several examples spring to mind:
- Mr Turner’s opposition of same-sex marriage
- His vote against lowering the voting age to 16
- Voting against spending public money to create guaranteed jobs for young people who have spent a long time unemployed.
Isle of Wight Liberal Youth
As far as I know, we are the only party with an active youth movement on the Isle of Wight. This is what makes the difference.
The Isle of Wight Liberal Youth actually does things. As such, any young person with a passion for politics and making the world a better place should definitely get in touch with us. We are actively involved in campaigning all year round, and we played a pivotal role in the Liberal Democrats EU referendum campaign on the Island.
The Island team is very open and friendly, with a mix of experienced members and newcomers like myself. I cannot stress enough how useful the skills you pick up in the course of campaigning are.
Join us
After the last few months, the Liberal Democrat party has grown by 18,000 new members. I hope that there are some young Islanders who will join us and help make the Isle of Wight more than just a place to retire.
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