asked the Minister for Local Government if he will ensure that for all future elections polling stations are freely and independently accessible to disabled people such as persons using wheelchairs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Voting by Incapacitated People.
14.
The selection of the building to be used as a polling station is a matter for the local returning officer concerned. I have advised returning officers that buildings should be selected with a view to easy access by incapacitated persons, particularly those confined to wheelchairs, and that polling stations should in all cases be located on the ground floor.
Will the Minister arrange where it has been proved that in some instances polling stations cannot be allocated on the ground floor that a presiding officer can bring the ballot paper to the person who wishes to cast his vote? Can that be done or could the Minister arrange for that?
It is not allowed under the law. Nobody is allowed to take a ballot paper out of a polling station. I am sorry although I quite agree with Deputy Power's point of view.
Would the Minister not consider that it is a greater sin to deprive a person of a vote than to allow the presiding officer to bring out the ballot paper and let him vote outside under suitable supervision?
I do, but those who drafted the law did not.
The Minister is in a position to change the law if he wishes.