Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
1051. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the basis for and the origin of the instruction to commence planning and preparation for elections and referenda in the context of the Covid-19 crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7424/20]
View answerThe preparation and management of electoral events is a key part of the ongoing business planning work of the Franchise Unit in my Department. Earlier this year, when the extent of the COVID-19 virus became evident, officials in the Franchise Unit commenced scenario planning for the conduct of any electoral event where COVID-19 type restrictions might be in place. This included carrying out an initial assessment of all elements of the electoral process where issues might arise.
Such scenario planning is good practice and is also necessary to ensure that appropriate arrangements for the conduct of electoral events can be put in place if a pandemic is ongoing.
As Minister with overall responsibility for electoral law, I engaged with the Franchise Unit to ensure that the necessary scenario planning was being undertaken. Such engagement between officials and Ministers is standard practice across all policy areas in my Department.
