While we in Young Independence will always support the right to march and protest and express freedom of speech, especially during such hard economic times, we do not condone some of the events that had unfolded during the course of the day. To set fires near the War Memorial and to damage policie vehicles and to harm police personnel is unjustifiable and wrong.

Young Independence opposes the increase in tuition fees and promotes the reintroduction of the Student Grants System. We also strongly believe in the introduction of a school voucher system whereby parents and children alike, regardless of financial background can choose the schools to go to, whether they be private, public or faith schools. These combined measures of grants and vouchers, will enable greater choice, greater opportunity and great social mobility.

YI will always support peaceful, non-violent protests as we see them as a fundamental right of personal liberty and freedom. It is truly unfortunate that a violent, attention-seeking minority felt it necessary to turn a majpr youth event of our time into an embarassing and disproportionate portrayal of young people across the country.

Young Independence hears the call of fellow young people across the country, it is time for an alternative who understands the needs of our generation . We are committed, determined and ready to act on education, on tuition fees and on the future of our country. Join us.