Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 6 Dec 2001

Vol. 546 No. 1

Written Answers. - Electoral Participation Initiative.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

26 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the specific steps taken or proposals made regarding the electoral participation initiative designed to encourage maximum voter participation which was included in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31108/01]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

The commitment under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness to improve voter participation is being progressed as part of my Department's ongoing responsibility for the administration and improvement of electoral law and through extended advertising campaigns relating to the register of electors. The Electoral (Amendment) Act, 2001, addresses barriers to voter registration and voting that exist within the current system and provides for a range of issues which will make a positive contribution to encouraging voter participation.

Among the measures included in the Act are provisions for photographs and party emblems on ballot papers, earlier opening of polling stations, the display of a large print copy of ballot papers in polling buildings, additional information on polling cards, companion voting for persons with literacy difficulties, voting by poll workers and provision that a registered voter who changes address during the life of a register of electors can apply for entry in the supplement. In addition, the Act provides a statutory basis for the introduction of electronic voting and vote counting, the system for which is currently undergoing extensive testing.

My Department, as part of the PPF initiative, has also undertaken extended publicity campaigns in 2000 and 2001 to promote voter registration. The campaign in 2000 specifically targeted young people and disadvantaged communities and stressed the importance of registration, the key dates in the registration process and how to get on the register and supplement. The budget for this year's campaign was increased by 70% and involved an innovative TV, flyposter and on-line media campaign.

While I am satisfied with the progress made to date, my Department will continue to keep under review measures which will contribute to improving voter participation.