Mr Dickson said young people in Northern Ireland deserved the right to participate in the democratic process.
“Young people at 16 are old enough to work, join the armed forces and pay taxes. Therefore, it naturally follows they have should have a right to say how those taxes are spent and who makes those other key decisions. If you pay taxes, you deserve representation.
“By reducing the voting age to 16 we can also encourage more young people to take an interest in politics and get involved in the democratic process while still in education. Giving a new generation a voice can only be a benefit to local politics.
“We must take this opportunity to show young people they are equal citizens, with respected opinions. Many of the decisions taken by elected representatives will shape the rest of their lives, so it is only fair they have a say in them.”