Vol. 443 No. 9
47 Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for the Environment the number of schools throughout the country which had to close due to elections taking place on a Thursday; and if he will ensure that elections are held on a Sunday similar to eight out of 12 other European countries.
48 Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for the Environment the plans, if any, he has to hold elections on a Sunday in view of the fact that eight out of 12 EC countries vote on a Sunday; the number of schools throughout the country which had to close because of elections taking place on a Thursday; and if he will co-operate with the Department of Education to ensure that elections are held on a Sunday.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 48 together.
Under the Electoral Act, 1992, the polling day at each election and referendum falls to be appointed by order of the Minister for the Environment, in accordance with, and subject to the constraints specified in, the particular electoral code. It is a matter for decision on each occasion which day of the week should be appointed.
The detailed arrangements for the conduct of elections in each constituency are the responsibility of the returning officer concerned. Information about the number of schools used as polling stations and any closing of such schools is not, therefore, available in my Department.
