21st November 2003

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Science Shop Award winner Lisa Malarkey receives her £500 prize from Professor Peter Roebuck, University of Ulster
A University of Ulster student, whose research directly influenced the current role of the Children’s Commisioner for Northern Ireland, Nigel Williams, last night scooped a Science Shop Award.

Magee law student Lisa Melarkey carried out an a analysis of the Commissioner for Children and Young People Northern Ireland Order 2003 for the Derry Children’s Commission which was used in their submission to Mr Williams.

Her project recommended that young people be directly involved in the recruitment process for the Children’s Commissioner for Northern Ireland and that he should report to them, not only to government, if children’s rights are to be protected here.

The report also suggests that children be formally educated within schools about their rights, as current evidence shows that most young people are unaware of these rights.

Director for the Derry Children’s Commission, Clionagh Boyle, strongly supported the report’s recommendations: “Lisa’s work has provided us with an in depth exploration of the legislation in a readable accessible style which is no small achievement given the complexities of the task.

“This was a particularly challenging piece of work that we used in a submission made to the newly appointed Children’s Commissioner in Northern Ireland, Nigel Williams”.

The annual Science Shop event showcases the best community based action research projects of the year, identifying a project that has made a significant contribution to the community sector.

Lisa received her award and £500 prize at a special presentation ceremony at the University of Ulster last night.

Weblinks: Science Shop Website | Latest Project Directory

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk