Electoral register and commission
Deputy Bannon highlights inaccurate and outdated electoral registers and seeks fast-tracking of the electoral commission Bill. The Tánaiste says the issue is with a committee and legislation is being prepared.
Right across the country, the electoral register continues to cause serious problems, particularly for individuals voting in both elections and referenda. They find that their names are missing on the register although they have lived in an area all their lives. There are incorrect names on the register and people who are deceased for three or four years. This is not good enough.
Comment on this
The establishment of an electoral commission needs to be fast-tracked. This was promised in the programme for Government. The electoral commission Bill, No. 84, is to provide for the establishment of an electoral commission. Can that be fast-tracked?
Comment on this
Let me first refer to the difficulties with the electoral register. If people are denied their vote, it is a very serious issue. The matter has been referred to the environment committee for it to examine it and report as soon as possible.
The Cabinet published a consultation document on the electoral commission proposal. Obviously, that will form part of the preparation of the legislation.