"We are before a generation that will shape the Azores during this century. Therefore, it is fundamental to share ideas, proposals, responses and ideas," stressed the Regional Director for Labour, Vocational Training and Consumer Defence.
 
Rui Bettencourt spoke during the debate on the challenges of the labour market, held under the 13th session of the Youth Plenary, an initiative promoted and sponsored by the Legislative Assembly of the Azores. The event was also attended by the Regional Directors for Education and Training and for Youth.

Addressing at secondary school students, the Regional Director for Labour mentioned that "employment is not solely dependent on a single factor but, but on a combination of factors. We must enhance our strengths to overcome those that are external to the Region, such as "the dynamics of the labour market."

"The present situation is strongly disrupting the labour market, which has led to rising unemployment rates," mentioned the government official.

Rui Bettencourt also took the opportunity to encourage youngsters to invest in their qualifications because even "at a time of difficulties, those with more qualifications have higher chances to get a job."

"There is no future without the qualification of youngsters," the government official said, adding that "a more qualified generation will generate wealth, which is the necessary condition to strengthen the Welfare State. This should be our goal; we must refuse impoverishment."

According to the Regional Director, the issues of employment, labour relations and employability "are very important for the life plan of each one of us" and they are "even more important for youngsters."
The session of the Youth Plenary aims to provide participants with a parliamentary experience similar to the plenary sessions that take place at the Azorean Parliament on a monthly basis. Moreover, this initiative also intends to involve youngsters in civic participation projects.

The event was attended by 57 youngsters, who will discuss the theme "Challenges of the Labour Market" at the Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of the Azores.

This event is targeted at secondary school students and counted on the participation of 17 schools: Mouzinho da Silveira Basic Education School; Flores Basic Education and Secondary School; Graciosa, Lajes, São Roque do Pico, Calheta, Velas, Povoação, Nordeste, Vila Franca do Campo and Tomás de Borba Basic Education Schools; Manuel de Arriaga, Antero de Quental, Ribeira Grande, Laranjeiras, Lagoa and Domingos Rebelo Secondary Schools.