On Thursday, 2^nd July 2026 at 10:00 a.m., the hallowed halls of the Parliament of the Cayman Islands will echo with the voices of the next generation as they convene for the inaugural Summer Youth Parliament Debate.

In a session that promises to be both spirited and timely, Youth Parliamentarians (YPs) will debate a Private Member’s Motion that has sparked national conversation: “Limiting social media for children under the age of sixteen“.

The debate stems from a Private Member’s Motion originally moved by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Pearlina McGaw-Lumsden, JP, MP and seconded by Opposition Member, Mr. Roy Tatum, Cert. Hon., JP, MP, which successfully passed in the Parliament on 5^th March 2026. Recognising the profound impact of digital spaces on young people, the YPs will take the Floor to voice their individual perspectives, arguing both for and against the Motion based on their own research and personal views.

This Summer Youth Parliament debate is spearheaded by the Youth Parliament Organising Committee’s Chairman and Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Kenneth Bryan, JP, MP and aims to bridge the gap between young citizens and the legislative process, providing a platform for civic engagement outside of the annual YP Programme.

“Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are active stakeholders in the issues of today,” said Hon. Kenneth Bryan. “By debating a motion as topical as social media usage, these young parliamentarians are tackling a global challenge within a local context. We expect them to debate and vote their conscience, reflecting the true diversity of thought among our youth. I am eager to hear the Youth Parliamentarians weigh in with their own lived experiences and individual viewpoints.”

Hon. McGaw-Lumsden added “This motion is about putting the wellbeing of our children first. Across the world, there is growing recognition that unrestricted access to social media at a young age carries real risks, from exposure of harmful content to mental health challenges. I am especially encouraged that this issue will be debated by our Youth Parliamentarians, because this is ultimately about their future, their wellbeing, and their voices, and it is vital that they are part of this national conversation. I eagerly await their debate and wish them every success.”

The public is encouraged to tune in to witness the YPs engage in parliamentary procedure, demonstrate their research, and cast their votes on this defining issue.

The Youth Parliament provides students and young professionals across the Cayman Islands with a hands-on understanding of the democratic process, public speaking, and policy development.