A group of students aged 15 to 18 years examined the special features of these two neighbouring countries - with Finland already a member of the EU, and Estonia amongst those countries wishing to join.

In 2004 the group visited both countries for a tour of key institutions and to make new friends.

An informative discussion was held on the pros & cons of the Euro. The event was designed to stimulate argument and discussion from many points of view.

It provided an opportunity for young people to be well informed before reaching their own conclusions, and gave them a chance to express their views both during the conference and afterwards.

The evening began with coffee followed by a Powerpoint presentation by Roger Cowac and Joan Gambell from Barclays Bank. They talked generally about the Euro and what it would mean for small businesses, the benefits of Euro accounts and the need to simplify and speed up money transfers.

Factors to support the use of the Euro such as consistency of price across Europe and the possibility of a wider market were considered, together with disadvantages such as a loss of control over interest rates. Also mentioned were the benefits to travellers across Europe who would no longer have to pay commission on currency exchange.

The participants joined in enthusiastically with discussions and questions, and enjoyed the experience of a professional and business like setting where their views were taken seriously.