Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 May 2018
469. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government his views on expanding the number of persons that can sign applications for the supplementary register of electors in order to increase access to the register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19704/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraElectoral law provides that an application for inclusion in the supplement to the Register of Electors must be signed by the applicant in the presence of a member of An Garda Síochána from the applicant's local Garda station who must first be satisfied to the person's identity before signing, dating and stamping the form. The Garda may request photographic or other identification. Where the applicant establishes in writing that he/she is unable to progress the application in this way, the form can be signed by the applicant in the presence of an official of the registration authority who is satisfied as to his or her identity. Again, photographic or other identification may be required. If neither option is viable due to physical illness or physical disability, the application form must be accompanied by a medical certificate. While electoral law is subject to ongoing review, I have no immediate proposals to extend the current arrangements.
