More than 300 young people attended the event inside Parliament Buildings in Belfast.

The Youth Parliament is currently holding its annual sitting at the University of Ulster in Jordanstown - the first time in Northern Ireland.

The four day event, which ends on Monday, has already seen debates on the environment, health, crime and education.

Other issues have included lowering the voting age to 16 and transport provision for young people.

The 11-18 year olds were addressed by Stormont Deputy speaker Francie Molloy.

Youth Parliament member Alex Huston, 16, from Belfast, said: "This time last week the media was full of stories of young people rioting here.

"This week we've had 300 young people at Stormont discussing politics and issues affecting them. It has been an incredible experience and shows how important it is that young people get involved in politics."

Elizabeth Harker, 13, from Poole in Dorset, added: "The visit to Stormont was amazing and a fantastic experience to hear from speakers who gave us truly inspirational messages.

"Young people gaining more understanding of politics is so valuable and it's such an honour to have been given that opportunity."