asked the Minister for the Environment if, in view of the relatively short notice given for applications for postal votes for the local government election, he will consider extending the time limit for applications, particularly for the disabled; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Postal Voting.
599.
April 30 was fixed as the closing date for receipt of applications by the Local Elections (Postal Voting) (Amendment) Regulations, 1985. The draft of these regulations was approved by Dáil Éireann on 6 March 1985.
April 30 is the latest date which would allow returning officers to finalise the preparation of the supplementary postal voters list in time for the issue of postal ballot papers at the local elections. It is not feasible to extend the application period at this stage. Postal voting rights and application procedures were the subject of an intensive publicity campaign in April.