Argyll and Bute Council says it wants to encourage school pupils to have a democratic voice after an MSP called for them to back young people to strike in the name of climate change.
The Scottish Greens’ Ross Greer called on the authority to allow youngsters to take the action to highlight the environmental issue.
An estimated 15,000 people took part in a wave of climate strikes across the UK in February, although pupils in Argyll and Bute were on their mid-term holiday at the time.
Another day of action is planned for tomorrow (Friday March 15) and the Green West of Scotland MSP wants school pupils to be allowed to take part if they wish.
Mr Greer has said that young people will struggle in a world gripped by total climate breakdown unless action is taken.
He said: “The climate crisis – and how we all respond to it – will now unavoidably define the lives of young people at school in Scotland today. Many are, completely rationally, fearful for their futures and those of young people around the world.
“It’s clear why they feel compelled to speak out and urge stronger action from governments and corporations who have not just failed to tackle this crisis but who have caused it.
“Local councils should support young people who chose to strike for the climate – after all, they epitomise what it means to be responsible citizens. They should certainly ensure that there is no threat of any form of punishment.”
A spokesperson for the council said: “We encourage our young people to have a democratic voice.
“Climate change is an important issue and would be an appropriate area for our young people to express their views.”
The strike action last month was inspired by 16-year-old Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg.
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