Investment Plan for 2016 provides stability to Government's programmes for Youth, says Isabel Rodrigues
The Regional Assistant Secretary of the Presidency for Parliamentary Affairs stated in Horta that the Regional Government provides Azorean youth with a "very stable set of programs, supporting different types of activities."
Isabel Rodrigues was heard by the Committee on Social Affairs of the Legislative Assembly on the proposed Plan and Budget for 2016. She pointed out that the plan "meets the expectations of Azorean youth, ensuring support to the implementation of their projects."
The Plan provides an allocation exceeding 2.6 million Euros for youth programmes and activities.
Isabel Rodrigues pointed out that "there are some variations in the specific allocation for each action, which correspond to an increase in the most sought-after areas by youth," adding that "the Government has managed to reduce investment in other areas with the establishment of partnerships."
"This year, we have reinforced two programmes that are very important for young people. One is the "Bento de Góis" mobility support programme. Every year, it supports many hundreds of young people in mobility projects with an educational component. We have also reinforced the Youth Free Time Occupation Programme - OTLJ, which is one of the most sought-after programmes by Azorean youth," said the government official.
With regard to mobility, the Regional Secretary pointed out the changes the Regional Government introduced this year to the Interjovem card, through the creation of two age groups and a substantial price drop in the age level 13-23, the most sought after by young people.
"This structure and the price drop in fares will be maintained in 2016," said Isabel Rodrigues.