Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Nov 2003

Vol. 575 No. 4

Written Answers. - Register of Electors.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

66 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government his plans to promote awareness among non-nationals of their right to be included in the electoral register and to vote in the local elections and, in respect of EU citizens, the right to vote in European elections; if advertising or promotional campaigns are planned by his Department; the reason specific measures are being taken to contact directly those who have been identified as potential EU voters, but not other categories of voters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28444/03]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The form used by registration authorities to compile the 2004/2005 register of electors contains information for non-nationals in relation to their eligibility to vote and to stand at the 2004 European and local elections. In accordance with EU Directive 93/109, EU citizens, apart from Irish or UK citizens, who are resident in Ireland, other than those who were registered at the 1994 or 1999 European elections, must complete an application form and declaration in order to be registered as European electors. It is understood that registration authorities are contacting such potential European electors as are known to them to ensure that they are aware of these additional requirements. In addition, advertising will also be undertaken in 2004 to alert nationals of EU applicant member states of their eligibility to take part in the 2004 polls, as well as all non-nationals who may be entitled to be registered for local elections.