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Ireland
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.1-4)
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 09:04:02 GMT
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
a. The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: a.) The national legislature.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.4)
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 09:05:38 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
b. Respecting natural barriers
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.3) Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:19:12 UTC
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
a. Total population
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.4)
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:19:12 UTC
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
c. Boundary Commission
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:19:12 UTC
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
j. National census
k. Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: k.) The constituencies shall be revised at least once in every 12 years.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.3-4)
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 09:14:47 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Nora Rowland
b. Job Title: Higher Executive Officer
c. Organisation: Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government
d. Contact Address. Custom House, Dublin 1, Ireland
e. Telephone: 00 353 1 8882423
f. Facsimile: 00 353 1 8882690
g. Email: [email protected]
Last updated: 2006-11-24 15:58:27 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
b. Optional referendum
Comments: C:27:5 "1° In every case in which the President decides that a Bill the subject of a petition under this Article contains a proposal of such national importance that the will of the people thereon ought to be ascertained, he shall inform the Taoiseach and the Chairman of each House of the Oireachtas accordingly in writing under his hand and Seal and shall decline to sign and promulgate such Bill as a law unless and until the proposal shall have been approved either i by the people at a Referendum in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of Article 47 of this Constitution within a period of eighteen months from the date of the President’s decision," C:46:2 "Every proposal for an amendment of this Constitution shall be initiated in Dáil Éireann as a Bill, and shall upon having been passed or deemed to have been passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas, be submitted by Referendum to the decision of the people in accordance with the law for the time being in force relating to the Referendum." C:47 "1. Every proposal for an amendment of this Constitution which is submitted by Referendum to the decision of the people shall, for the purpose of Article 46 of this Constitution, be held to have been approved by the people, if, upon having been so submitted, a majority of the votes cast at such Referendum shall have been cast in favour of its enactment into law. 2. 1° Every proposal, other than a proposal to amend the Constitution, which is submitted by Referendum to the decision of the people shall be held to have been vetoed by the people if a majority of the votes cast at such Referendum shall have been cast against its enactment into law and if the votes so cast against its enactment into law shall have amounted to not less than thirty-three and one-third per cent. of the voters on the register. 2° Every proposal, other than a proposal to amend the Constitution, which is submitted by Referendum to the decision of the people shall for the purposes of Article 27 hereof be held to have been approved by the people unless vetoed by them in accordance with the provisions of the foregoing sub-section of this section. 3. Every citizen who has the right to vote at an election for members of Dáil Éireann shall have the right to vote at a Referendum. 4. Subject as aforesaid, the Referendum shall be regulated by law."
Source: Articles 27, 46 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:22:48 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Comments: C:46:2 "Every proposal for an amendment of this Constitution shall be initiated in Dáil Éireann as a Bill, and shall upon having been passed or deemed to have been passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas, be submitted by Referendum to the decision of the people in accordance with the law for the time being in force relating to the Referendum."
Source: Articles 46 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:22:48 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Comments: C:27:5 "1° In every case in which the President decides that a Bill the subject of a petition under this Article contains a proposal of such national importance that the will of the people thereon ought to be ascertained, he shall inform the Taoiseach and the Chairman of each House of the Oireachtas accordingly in writing under his hand and Seal and shall decline to sign and promulgate such Bill as a law unless and until the proposal shall have been approved either i by the people at a Referendum in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of Article 47 of this Constitution within a period of eighteen months from the date of the President’s decision,"
Source: Articles 27 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:22:48 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-24 16:23:23 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-24 16:23:23 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-24 16:23:23 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:36:09 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:36:09 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:36:09 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1937
b. Optional referendum 1937
Comments: 1st July 1937 Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann)
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:36:09 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-11-24 17:37:15 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Comments: C:46:2 "Every proposal for an amendment of this Constitution shall be initiated in Dáil Éireann as a Bill, and shall upon having been passed or deemed to have been passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas, be submitted by Referendum to the decision of the people in accordance with the law for the time being in force relating to the Referendum."
Source: Articles 46 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:22:48 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
i. Other public policy issues
Comments: C:27:5 "1° In every case in which the President decides that a Bill the subject of a petition under this Article contains a proposal of such national importance that the will of the people thereon ought to be ascertained, he shall inform the Taoiseach and the Chairman of each House of the Oireachtas accordingly in writing under his hand and Seal and shall decline to sign and promulgate such Bill as a law unless and until the proposal shall have been approved either i by the people at a Referendum in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of Article 47 of this Constitution within a period of eighteen months from the date of the President’s decision,"
Source: Articles 27 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:22:48 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
k. None
Comments: k) In the law, no issues that might not be put to referendum are mentioned.
Source: Articles 27, 46 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Last updated: 2006-11-27 08:46:37 UTC
DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
e. None
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:01:39 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
c. President
Comments: C:27:5 "1° In every case in which the President decides that a Bill the subject of a petition under this Article contains a proposal of such national importance that the will of the people thereon ought to be ascertained, he shall inform the Taoiseach and the Chairman of each House of the Oireachtas accordingly in writing under his hand and Seal and shall decline to sign and promulgate such Bill as a law unless and until the proposal shall have been approved either i by the people at a Referendum in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of Article 47 of this Constitution within a period of eighteen months from the date of the President’s decision,"
Source: Articles 27 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann)
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:01:39 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:04:01 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:04:01 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-27 09:04:01 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local
b. Full Address Custom House, Dublin 1
c. Telephone 353 1 888 2484
d. Facsimile 353 1 888 2699
e. Email [email protected]
f. Website Address www.environ.ie
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Niall Callan, Secretary General
h. Information Officer Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections English
Comments: There is no national electoral management body. The minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is the Government minister responsible for electoral and referendum legislation. Elections/referendums are conducted by independent returning officers in accordance with legislation.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:29:35 UTC
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
c. Local level
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:16:58 UTC
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
d. A national government department
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:16:58 UTC
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
d. A national government department
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:16:58 UTC
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
d. Other
Comments: d) Staff provided by Franchise Section, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:16:58 UTC
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: 6000000
b. Exchange rate used $1.12 = IR£1.00
Comments: 6 000 000 USD
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected] (Jan 2007)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:29:35 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 2
Comments: 2.8 million approximately
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:16:58 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
b. Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: Proportional representation system by means of the singel transferable vote.
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.12(2.1)
Last updated: 2004-07-14 13:30:05 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
c. Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Comments: The leader of the largest political party forming the Government is Head of Government. His/her nomination is approved by the National Assembly (Dail Eireann).
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.13(1.1)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:35:24 GMT
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.12(1)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:36:41 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
b. Two chambers
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.15(1.2)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:38:29 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
i. Single Transferable Vote
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.5)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:40:08 GMT
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
j. By appointment
l. Other
Comments: j.) 11 Senators are appointed by the Head of Government. l.) 49 Senators are indirectly elected by the proportional representation/single transferable vote system.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.18
Last updated: Wed, 26 Jun 2002 14:44:49 GMT
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
h. Not applicable
Comments: List PR not used.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16 and 18
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:48:39 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.1-4)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 15:50:44 GMT
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
e. Other
Comments: 49 Senators are indirectly elected by vocational panels and university panels. 11 Senators are appointed by the Head of Government.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 16:09:55 GMT
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.1)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 16:16:40 GMT
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Na
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(2.1)
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 16:17:32 GMT
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
a. Yes
Comments: 6 seats are reserved for 2 University panels. 11 seats are appointed by the Head of Government.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.18
Last updated: Wed, 26 Jun 2002 13:15:28 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
d. Other - proportion of total seats (%) 28
Comments: 10% of the seats are reserved for 2 University panels. 18% of the seats are reserved for appointments by the Head of Government.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.18
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 16:28:12 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Comments: Quota of votes which is determined by number of valid votes and seats in constituency.
Source: Peter Greene, Secretary General, Department of the Environment and Local Government, Ireland, franchise(a)environ.irlgov.ie
Last updated: Mon, 17 Jun 2002 19:01:08 GMT
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
a. No minimum
Comments: A quota of votes based on valid votes and seats in panel.
Source: Peter Greene, Secretary General, Department of the Environment and Local Government, Ireland, franchise(a)environ.irlgov.ie
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 08:25:21 GMT
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: Same quota for all candidates. (Peter Greene, DOELG)
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2001
Last updated: Wed, 15 May 2002 14:57:51 GMT
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Same for all elected candidates - quota of votes based on valid votes and seats in panel. (Peter Greene, DOELG)
Source: Constitution of Ireland and Electoral Acts 1992-2001
Last updated: Tue, 02 Apr 2002 16:30:19 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: b.) Elections can be called at any time by the Head of Government.
Source: Peter Greene, Secretary General, Department of the Environment and Local Government, Ireland, franchise(a)environ.irlgov.ie
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 08:48:23 GMT
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: b.) Elections can be called at any time by the Head of Government. Elections follow elections for Chamber 1.
Source: Peter Greene, Secretary General, Department of the Environment and Local Government, Ireland, franchise(a)environ.irlgov.ie
Last updated: Thu, 20 Jun 2002 08:12:32 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
b. Separate legislation
d. Regulations or administrative rules
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Comments: December 2006. Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
c. Local elections
d. Referendums
e. Other
Comments: e.) European Parliament and elections for Irish speaking regions(Udaras na Gaeltachta).
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected] ; International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
b. National elections are held on the same day as regional and local elections
Comments: All elections and referendums can be held on the same day.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006; Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
b. Presidential elections are held on the same day as national legislative elections
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
a. Judiciary
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Comments: h.) Electoral disputes (petitions) are heard and determined by the courts.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
c. Voters
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:12:35 UTC
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
c. Organisation: Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local
d. Contact Address: Custom House, Dublin 1, Ireland
e. Telephone: 00 353 1 8882423
f. Facsimile: 00 353 1 8882699
g. Email: [email protected]
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 17:09:40 UTC
ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:37:31 UTC
ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:38:09 UTC
ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
a. Over 60%
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:39:02 UTC
ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
a. Over 60%
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:39:23 UTC
ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
a. Public radio
b. Private radio
c. Public television
d. Private television
e. Print media
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:39:58 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
a. a
Comments: Freedom of Information Act 1997
Source: Freedom of Information Act 1997
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:41:01 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
a. B
Source: Broadcasting Authority Acts 1960 to 2001
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:05:47 UTC
ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
a. Over 60 %
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:44:37 UTC
ME16 In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
a. Public radio
c. Private radio
d. Public television
f. Private television
g. Print media
Comments: d. 1 a. 2 c. 3 g. 4 f. 5
Last updated: 2007-01-11 17:09:40 UTC
ME17 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
a. Public radio
b. Private radio
c. Public television
d. Private television
e. Print media
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:47:38 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
a. a
Comments: Broadcasting Authority Acts 1960 to 2001
Source: Broadcasting Authority Acts 1960 to 2001
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:49:00 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. R
Source: Radio and Television Act 1988, Broadcasting Act 1988
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:05:47 UTC
ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
b. Independent regulator
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:52:56 UTC
ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
b. Private companies
Comments: An independent Regulator, the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, licences independent radio and television services. Details of their licencing procedures are available at www.bci.ie/policy.
Last updated: 2005-06-22 13:56:02 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
a. a
Comments: 1. If any false or misleading information was given to the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland by or on behalf of the sound broadcasting contractor prior to the making of the contract. 2. If the broadcasting contractor has, in the opinion of the Commission, committed serious or repeated breaches of his obligations under the sound broadcasting contract or the Act.
Source: Radio and Television Act 1988 (14)(4)(a)(i)(ii)
Last updated: 2007-01-11 17:09:40 UTC
ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-06-22 14:09:36 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
a. Amount (Euros) See ´comment´.
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X
Comments: Candidates at Dail (Parliament), Presidential and European elections are subject to expenditure limits as follows: - Dail (25,394 , 31,743 and 38,092 Euros for 3, 4 and five seat constituencies respectively); Presidential (1.3m Euros); European (230,000 Euros). These limits are inclusive of party expenditure. Within these limits there is no limit specified for advertising.
Source: The Electoral Act 1997, as amended.
Last updated: 2005-06-22 14:20:57 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
a. ... (euros) see ´comment´
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X
Comments: Candidates at Dail (Parliament), Presidential and European elections are subject to expenditure limits as follows: - Dail (25,394 , 31,743 and 38,092 Euros for 3, 4 and five seat constituencies respectively); Presidential (1.3m Euros); European (230,000 Euros). These limits are inclusive of party expenditure. Within these limits there is no limit specified for advertising.
Source: The Electoral Act 1997, as amended.
Last updated: 2005-06-22 14:30:01 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
a. ....... The Electoral Act 1997, as amended.
Comments: See also reply to Question 25 above. The monitoring of the disclosure regime is the responsibility of the Standards in the Public Office Commission.
Last updated: 2005-06-22 14:32:19 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:05:47 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:05:47 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
b. Yes, in legislative elections
Comments: The last Presidential election was not contested. There are no prohibitions on such debates.
Last updated: 2005-06-22 14:34:43 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:05:47 UTC
ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
g. Not applicable
Source: Nora Rowland, Higher Executive Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:05:47 UTC
ME63 Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
b. Outside the polling station
Last updated: 2005-06-22 15:13:02 UTC
ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-06-22 15:16:06 UTC
ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
a. A media department
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:30:16 UTC
ME68 Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:30:43 UTC
ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
a. Media packs/press kits
b. Press releases
c. Press conferences/briefings
e. Web site
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:33:03 UTC
ME70 Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:33:34 UTC
ME74 Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:34:27 UTC
ME75 Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:34:43 UTC
ME76 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:35:00 UTC
ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
d. It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.
Last updated: 2005-06-23 07:35:57 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
d. No registration required
Comments: i.) Under Irish electoral law, only candidates stand for election. It is not compulsory for a political party to register. The registration will allows the name of the party to be included on the ballot paper and for payment of public funds depending on number of first preference votes received.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: g.) Under Irish electoral law, only candidates stand for election.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: a.) 21 years
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(1.1)
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 09:29:31 GMT
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: a.) 21 years Same qualifications as candidates for Chamber 1.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.18(2)
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: a.) 35 years
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art.12(4.1)
Last updated: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 10:08:40 GMT
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
f. Holding of military office
h. Bankruptcy or Insolvency
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Comments: a.) Period of current criminal incarceration must be over 6 months.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
f. Holding of military office
g. Holding of government office
Comments: Holder of government office, defense forces etc. Would have to resign to qualify as a candidate for presidential elections. A person can serve only 2 consecutive terms as President.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
e. In both presidential and legislative elections
Source: Constitution of Ireland and Electoral Acts 1992-2001
Last updated: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 15:50:07 GMT
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Comments: Same as party candidates. (Peter Greene, DOELG)
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2001
Last updated: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 15:51:30 GMT
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Comments: Same as party candidates.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
d. Other
Comments: Same for all candidates. Requires nomination by 20 members of parliament or 4 county councils (local authorities).
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
b. Between elections
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2001
Last updated: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 15:56:40 GMT
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
e. Not Applicable
Comments: Political parties do not receive indirect public funding.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
b. Based on result of previous election
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
a. General party administration
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
Comments: a.) Donations over 5079 Euros must be disclosed in annual statement. Donations from one source limited to 6349 Euros per year. c.) Donations from non Irish citizens abroad prohibited as well as from commercial bodies who do not have a place of business in the Island of Ireland.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of candidate contributions received
b. Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
e. Ceilings on candidate election expenses
Comments: a.) Donations over 635 Euros must be disclosed. e.) Donations from one source in one year cannot exceed 2540 Euros. Donations from non Irish citizens abroad prohibited as well as from commercial bodies who do not have a place of business in the Island of Ireland.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
b. Regulated body specially created for this purpose
Comments: b.) Standards in Public Offices Commission.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:26:27 UTC
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
h. Party symbols in color
j. Candidate photos in color
m. Organized alphabetically
p. Bilingual
Comments: PR/STV electoral system.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
f. Same ballot papers used nationwide
j. Candidate photos in color
m. Organized alphabetically
p. Bilingual
Comments: PR/STV election system. There are different ballot papers for each vocational panel(s).
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
j. Candidate photos in color
m. Organized alphabetically
p. Bilingual
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
c. At special counting centres
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
e. Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused)
j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate
l. Counted by hand
n. Transfer ballots from party/candidate with least support to second preference
p. Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count
q. Copies of results are provided to observers
r. Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
s. Copies of results are provided to party agents
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
d. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: d.) Constituency level
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
c. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: Regional level - constituency. 3, 4, and 5 seat constituency.
Source: Constitution of Ireland and Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
c. By fax
h. Other
Comments: h) By post.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
i. Not applicable
Last updated: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 18:25:20 GMT
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
k. Not applicable
Last updated: Wed, 03 Apr 2002 18:27:14 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
d. By request
e. Court order
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Comments: Ballots not automatically recounted.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
b. An individual candidate
f. Other
Comments: Candidate's agent.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
i. Other
Comments: i.) The Returning Officer.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
b. No
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
Comments: Counting commences at 9:00 a.m. following day. (Peter Greene, DOELG)
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2006
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: b.) 1 day The count is conducted the day following polling day. The results is announced when the count is completed ( in the end of that day).
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:58:15 UTC
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
d. National Government
f. Local Governments
i. Media
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:22:20 UTC
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only
Source: Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:22:20 UTC
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
a. No
Source: Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:22:20 UTC
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
b. Media advertisement
Source: Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:22:20 UTC
VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
Source: Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:22:20 UTC
VE06 Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
b. Young people/ first time voters
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Governance, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:22:20 UTC
Voting Operations
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
b. No
Comments: Conduct of elections set out in the legislation.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
f. By mail
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
d. Members of the armed forces
f. Diplomatic staff
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
e. By mail
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
b. By mail
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
b. Disabled persons
c. People in remote areas
d. People in hospitals
f. Other
Comments: c.) Also include islands. f.) Employed persons who cannot get to polling station on polling day. Including 3rd level students.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No NA
Comments: Not applicable
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Comments: In May 2002 elections there was a pilot project to vote by electronic voting machine in 3 constituencies.
Source: Peter Greene, Secretary General, Department of the Environment and Local Government, Ireland, franchise(a)environ.irlgov.ie
Last updated: Thu, 20 Jun 2002 08:25:52 GMT
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 2
b. The largest polling station: 2
Comments: There can be more than 1 polling station in the same building.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 16:50:39 UTC
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Comments: 18 years
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(1.2)
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:20:26 UTC
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
Comments: a.) UK citizens are also eligible to vote at parliamentary elections.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art.16(1.2) Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:20:26 UTC
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
i. Not applicable
Comments: There are no restrictions on registering to vote and voting.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:20:26 UTC
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
c. Local Government Authority
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:20:26 UTC
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
a. National citizens register
Comments: The register is compiled by 34 major local authorities. It includes electors entitled to vote at European Parliament elections and local elections, along with Irish citizens.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:20:26 UTC
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
b. Annually
Comments: During the revision of the annual register, an elector not on the register, can apply to enter a supplementary register.
Source: Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Last updated: 2007-01-11 14:20:26 UTC
VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
d. Registration by mail
e. Appearance by voter at registration office
f. Door-to-door registration campaign
Comments: The register is compiled by the 34 major local authorities. There are 34 individual registers.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2001
Last updated: Wed, 26 Jun 2002 14:02:47 GMT
May 20, 2008 08:19 AM
