Electoral Reform (Amendment) and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2023

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The proposed law would give the Electoral Commission a formal role in reviewing how Seanad elections work, who can vote in them, and whether the voting age should change. It would also update election law so that civil society groups are better protected when they speak out or campaign on public issues. In addition, it would make public buses and trains free on polling day to help more people get to the ballot box. The aim is to improve participation in elections, especially for people who find it hard to vote.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to amend the Electoral Reform Act 2022 to provide in the functions of An Coimisiún Toghcháin for the review of the electoral system and franchise for Seanad Éireann, and to provide in the functions of An Coimisiún Toghcháin for the review of voting age; to amend the Electoral Act 1997 to protect the right to freedom of association and expression for civil society organisations in Ireland, and to provide for free public transport on polling day; and to provide for related matters.      

Last updated 30 August 2024