DUMBARTON’S youngest politician is ready to fight for young voices to be heard in the community.

Dylan Murdoch, 16, was elected recently as a new member of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP), taking up his two-year post in June.

The Vale of Leven Academy pupil said he wants to push for more funding and better services for youngsters like him and also look at issues of the cost of travel in the area.

Dumbarton has been represented by Jack Brough and Beni Ray and more than 70,000 young Scots aged between 12 and 25 voted for their new MSYPs.

Dylan told the Reporter: “Over the next two years I want to ensure local youth clubs are given more funding to provide a quality service for young people in the local area and ensure our voices are heard and our views are represented.

“I want to raise a discussion on the price of public transportation for young people and potentially get it adjusted to a more reasonable price to give younger people from a more disadvantaged background more opportunities regarding transportation.

“Overall I want to see young people become more involved in the local area and for us to inspire positive change giving us more opportunities moving forward.”

Rosie Sumsion, a fifth-year pupil at Hermitage Academy, was confirmed for the neighbouring Helensburgh and Lomond constituency.

Read more: Education Scotland inspectors visit Vale of Leven Academy

Leven councillor Caroline McAllister said: “It was a pleasure to attend the announcement of the successful candidate for Dumbarton and the Vale SYP elections.

“Dylan is a worthy winner and I look forward to working with him and hearing what’s important to the young people of our area. I’m sure he’ll be a great advocate for young people and an asset to Scotland’s Youth Parliament.

“My advice to him would be stay in close touch with the people you represent. They not only guide you on your way but keeps you grounded & focussed on what you want to achieve.”

She added: “It was encouraging to meet and chat with some of the candidates who had bravely put themselves forward.

“Seeing so many young people engaged and having a good understanding of politics leaves me feeling confident Scotland is more than able to continue to produce intelligent, articulate and educated people who will positively contribute to the further progression of our nation.”

“I’m particularly excited to see plans for a local youth council progress and hope those who expressed an interest will stand in the local youth elections.

- Dylan will write a column in the Reporter, from June.

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