1726. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update on the review by his Department and An Coimisiún Toghcháin on a possible reduction in the voting age, and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60442/26]

Under the Electoral Reform Act 2022, An Coimisiún Toghcháin's research, advisory and public information function sees it conduct research on electoral policy and procedure. An Coimisiún is also empowered to advise and make recommendations to the Government in relation to any proposals for legislative change, or any other policy matters concerning electoral policy or procedures.

In advance of its first research programme being finalised, the then Minister wrote to the Chair of the commission recommending that a review of the minimum voting age be included in its research programme. An Coimisiún published its inaugural Research Programme 2024-2026 on 10 July 2024. Its research programme includes a commitment to examine the issue of a possible reduction in the voting age. I understand that in its most recent update to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage, on its research programme, An Coimisiún stated that research on the issue of reducing the voting age is well advanced.

I have no responsibility over the performance by An Coimisiún Toghcháin's functions, including those relating to research, policy advice and public information.

This policy area will be reviewed by my Department once An Coimisiún has considered and reported on the issue.