asked the Minister for Local Government if a review of the postal voting system as it obtained in the recent local elections has taken place and been completed; and, if so, if any recommendations have been made to him for changes in procedure or if he intends to make any changes to exclude in future the abuses that took place on that occasion.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Postal Voting System.
2.
A review of the postal voting system in the light of experience gained at the local elections has been carried out in my Department. I hope to introduce legislation providing for extended postal voting facilities at national elections shortly taking into account the results of this review. The Bill will give the House an opportunity of debating the matter.
Does the Minister think there is any need for changing the postal voting system as it obtains at local elections?
There is a need to change some aspects of it; to tighten up the procedure of verification of applications for a postal vote to give one instance. I hope to have this before the House very shortly.
The Minister is aware, of course, that practically anybody can get a postal vote under existing regulations?
That was very plain in Donegal.
In Fine Gael circles.