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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: 1° Dáil Éireann shall be composed of members who represent constituencies determined by law.
2° The number of members shall from time to time be fixed by law, but the total number of members of Dáil Éireann shall not be fixed at less than one member for each thirty thousand of the population, or at more than one member for each twenty thousand of the population.
3° The ratio between the number of members to be elected at any time for each constituency and the population of each constituency, as ascertained at the last preceding census, shall, so far as it is practicable, be the same throughout the country.
4° The Oireachtas shall revise the constituencies at least once in every twelve years, with due regard to changes in distribution of the population, but any alterations in the constituencies shall not take effect during the life of Dáil Éireann sitting when such revision is made.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.1 - 2.4): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: a) An independent Commission draws up a revised scheme of constituencies which is given effect by an Act of the Oireachtas (National Parliament).
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.4);
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1869,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers
Comments: The ratio between the number of members to be elected at any time for each constituency and the population of each constituency, as ascertained at the last preceding census, shall, so far as it is practicable, be the same throughout the country.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.3): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
a . Total population
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.3 - 2.4)
Verified: 2012/05/10
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber) d . Boundary Commission
Comments: An independent Constituency Commission draws up a revised scheme of constituencies which is given effect by an Act of the Oireachtas (National Parliament).
Source: Constituency Commission establishment order S.I. No. 396 of 2011;
Official Website of the Constituency Commission: http://www.constituency-commission.ie/index.htm
Verified: 2024/11/21
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
j . National census k . Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: k) Constituencies shall be revised at least once in every 12 years with due regard to changes in distribution of the population.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.3 - 2.4)
Verified: 2012/05/10
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
b . Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: There shall be a President of Ireland (Uachtarán na hÉireann), hereinafter called the President, who shall take precedence over all other persons in the State and who shall exercise and perform the powers and functions conferred on the President by this Constitution and by law.
The President shall be elected by direct vote of the people.
Source: Constitution, Art. 12; https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Presidential Elections Act, Art. 50-51: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/IE/ireland-presidential-elections-act-1993/view
Verified: 2024/11/21
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
c . Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Comments: The President shall, on the nomination of Dáil Éireann (the National Assembly), appoint the Taoiseach, that is, the head of the Government or Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution, Art. 13 (1): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 12 - 14: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: The National Parliament shall be called and known, and is in this Constitution generally referred to, as the Oireachtas.
2° The Oireachtas shall consist of the President and two Houses, viz.: a House of Representatives to be called Dáil Éireann and a Senate to be called Seanad Éireann.
Source: Constitution, Art. 15: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
i . Single Transferable Vote
Comments: The members shall be elected on the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.
Source: Constitution, Art. 16(2.5): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments: List PR not used.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16 and 18
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.1 - 2.4)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
e . Other
Comments: The Seanad is comprised of 60 members. Eleven members are nominated by the
Taoiseach (Prime Minister), 6 members are elected by university graduates and
43 are elected from panels of candidates representing specified vocational interests.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 18
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(2.1)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Three members shall be elected by the National University of Ireland.
Three shall be elected by the University of Dublin.
Forty-three shall be elected from panels of candidates representing specified vocational interests. Eleven members are nominated by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister).
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 18
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: The quota is the minimum number of votes necessary to guarantee the election of a candidate. It is ascertained by dividing the total number of valid ballot papers by one more than the number of seats to be filled and adding one to the result.
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1869,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: The quota is the minimum number of votes necessary to guarantee the election of a candidate. It is ascertained by dividing the total value of the valid votes by one more than the number of seats to be filled and adding one to the result
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,3724,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Same quota for all candidates.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Same for all elected candidates - quota of votes based on valid votes and seats in panel.
Source: Constitution, Art. 18;
Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: b) Elections can be called at any time by by the President on the advice of the Taoiseach (Prime Minister). The same House of Representatives shall not continue for a longer period than seven years from the date of its first meeting.
Source: Constitution, Art. 16(5);
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1869,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: b) Elections can be called at any time by order of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. A general election for the Senate shall take place not later than ninety days after a dissolution of the House of Representatives.
Source: Constitution, Art. 18(8);
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,3724,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(4.1)
Verified: 2012/05/10
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
b . Voting takes place over a period of 2 or more days
Comments: Postal vote.
Source: Constitution, Art. 18(5)
Verified: 2012/05/10
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Constitution; https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Electoral Acts 1992: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec5
Verified: 2024/11/21
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: Electoral Amendment Act 14/2011
Source: Irish Statute Book Website: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/2011/en/act/pub/0014/print.html (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections d . Referendums e . Other
Comments: e) Elections to the European Parliament and elections for Irish speaking regions (Udaras na Gaeltachta).
Source: Constitution; https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Electoral Acts 1992: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec5
Local Electoral Regulations, S.I. No. 297/1995: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/IE/ireland-local-elections-regulations-1995/view ;
Presidential Elections Act 1993: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/IE/ireland-presidential-elections-act-1993/view ;
S.I. No. 258/2011 — Presidential Elections (Forms) Regulations 2011;
The Seanad Electoral Act 1954 (Panel Members);
the Referendum Act 2001 as amended;
European Parliament Elections Act 1997 as amended
Verified: 2024/11/21
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 16(1.2), 12(2): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
LF005
Question: 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?
Answer:
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 1992-2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: A Dáil election may, and may only, be questioned by a petition to the High Court.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 132: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print
Verified: 2024/11/21
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: h) A Dáil election may, and may only, be questioned by a petition to the High Court.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 132(1)
Verified: 2012/05/10
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters
Comments: A petition may be presented by any person who is registered or entitled to be registered as a Dáil elector in the constituency.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 132(4)
Verified: 2012/05/10
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: The decision of the High Court is final, subject only to appeal on a question of law to the Supreme Court.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 134
Verified: 2012/05/10
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
b . Legislative Committee c . Government
Comments: The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
Source: Constitution, Art. 15(2);
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: Elections to the European Parliament and Referendums
Source: Electoral Act 1997: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec5
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
b . The Prime Minister c . The legislature
Comments:
Source: Environment, Community and Local Government (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order, S.I. No. 311 of 2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: d) The Ministry of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: d) The Ministry of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
c . For an unspecified period
Comments: c) Civil servants of the Ministry of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
a . Governmental
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: d) Civil Servants of the Ministry of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
d . Not Applicable
Comments: d) Civil Servants of the Ministry of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
j . Not Applicable
Comments: They are civil servants of the Ministry of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/
Verified: 2024/11/21
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body d . National Government f . Local Governments i . Media
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/NationalElections/
Official Website of Public Service Information for Citizens: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/national_elections/
Verified: 2024/11/21
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/NationalElections/
Official Website of Public Service Information for Citizens: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/national_elections/
Verified: 2024/11/21
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/NationalElections/;
Official Website of Public Service Information for Citizens: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/national_elections/
Verified: 2024/11/21
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement g . Internet
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/NationalElections/ (2012);
Official Website of Public Service Information for Citizens: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/national_elections/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement g . Internet
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/NationalElections/ (2012);
Official Website of Public Service Information for Citizens: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/national_elections/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
a . Disabled b . Young people/ first time voters
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/NationalElections/ (2012);
Official Website of Public Service Information for Citizens: http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/national_elections/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: All citizens, and such other persons in the State as may be determined by law,
without distinction of sex who have reached the age of eighteen years who are not disqualified by law and comply with the provisions of the law relating to the election of members of Dáil Éireann, shall have the right to vote at an election for members of Dáil Éireann.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(1.2): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence e . Other
Comments: (1) A person shall be entitled to be registered as a Dáil elector in a constituency if he has reached the age of eighteen years and he was, on the qualifying date—
(a) a citizen of Ireland, and
(b) ordinarily resident in that constituency.
(2) (a) In addition to those entitled to be registered under subsection (1) a person shall be entitled to be registered as a Dáil elector in a constituency if he is a person who has reached the age of eighteen years and who on the qualifying date—
(i) complied with the requirement of subsection (1) (b), and
(ii) was either—
(I) a British citizen, or
(II) a national of a Member State to which this subsection applied on that date.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(1.2); https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Electoral Act 1992, Art. 8: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec64
Verified: 2024/11/21
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: No restrictions
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 8
Verified: 2012/05/10
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
c . Local Government Authority
Comments: A register by reference to registration areas consisting of administrative counties and county boroughs shall be prepared and published in every year of persons who were entitled to be registered as electors on the qualifying date and, in so far as it relates to presidential electors, it shall be the register of presidential electors, in so far as it relates to Dáil electors, it shall be the register of Dáil electors, in so far as it relates to European electors, it shall be the register of European electors and, in so far as it relates to persons entitled to vote at local elections, it shall be the register of local government electors.
(2) Every register of electors shall come into force on the date specified for this purpose in the Second Schedule and shall remain in force until the day before the date on which the next register comes into force.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 7, 8, 13; https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec64
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/ (2012)
Verified: 2024/11/21
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13;
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
b . Annually
Comments: During the revision of the annual register, an elector not on the register, can apply to enter a supplementary register.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 7 - 13;
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
d . Registration by mail e . Appearance by voter at registration office f . Door-to-door registration campaign i . Internet registration
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2011, Art. 7 - 13;
Official Website of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/ (2012);
Official Website of the Electoral Register: http://www.checktheregister.ie/PublicPages/Default.aspx?uiLang= (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 7, 8, 13; https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec64
Verified: 2024/11/21
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments:
(2) A political party may apply to the Registrar to be registered in the Register of Political Parties as a party—
(a) organised in the State to contest a Dáil election or a European election or a local election, or
(b) organised in a part of the State specified in the application to contest a Dáil election or a European election or a local election.
(3) The Registrar shall prepare and maintain a register (to be known as the Register of Political Parties) in which, subject to the subsequent provisions of this section, he shall register any political party—
(a) which applies to him for registration, and
(b) which is in his opinion—
(i) a genuine political party, and
(ii) organised in the State or a part thereof to contest a Dáil election or a European election or a local election.
Source: Electoral Acts, Art. 25: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec15
Verified: 2024/11/21
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: g) Under Irish electoral law, only candidates stand for Senate elections.
Source: The Seanad Electoral Act 1954 (Panel Members); The Seanad Electoral Act 1937 (University Members); Constitution, Art. 18
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship
Comments: Every citizen without distinction of sex who has reached the age of twenty-one years, and who is not placed under disability or incapacity by this Constitution or by law, shall be eligible for membership of Dáil Éireann.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 16(1.1): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship
Comments: a) 21 years old
Same qualifications as candidates for Chamber 1.
Source: Constitution, Ch.4, Art. 18(2)
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship
Comments: a) 35 years old
Source: Constitution, Ch.3, Art. 12(4.1)
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration f . Holding of military office h . Bankruptcy or Insolvency n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Comments: a) The period of current criminal incarceration must be over 6 months
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 41
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
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: Constitution, Art. 12 (3.2);
The Presidential Elections Act 1993
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: Where a candidate is not the candidate of a political party registered in the Register of Political Parties as a party organised to contest a Dáil election he shall be entitled to enter after his name on the nomination paper the expression “Non-Party” and, if he does so, the returning officer shall cause a statement of that expression to be specified in relation to the candidate on all the ballot papers and on notices.
Source: Constitution, Art. 16, 18; https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Electoral Acts 1992-2011, Art. 46(5): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec15
Verified: 2024/11/21
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Candidates not in possession of a certificate of political affiliation, must comply with one or other of the following procedures before the expiration of the time for receiving nominations: (i) the completion of statutory declarations by 30 assentors to the nomination who are registered as Dáil
electors in the relevant constituency. The assents must be witnessed by a Notary Public, a Commissioner for Oaths, a Peace Commissioner, a member of the Garda Síochána or an official of the registration authority (City or County Council). (ii) Alternatively, the candidate, or someone on his or her behalf, may lodge a deposit of €500 with the returning officer.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2011, Art. 46, 47
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 18
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: Requires nomination by 20 members of parliament or 4 county councils (local authorities).
Source: Constitution, Art. 12(4.2)
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct
Comments: 17.—(1) Subject to the provisions of this Part, payments shall be made out of the Central Fund or the growing produce thereof to each qualified party which applies therefor.
(2) (a) The aggregate of the payments which may be made to qualified parties in any twelve monthly period under this Part shall not, subject to paragraph (b), exceed one million pounds.
(b) (i) Whenever, on or after the passing of this Act, there is a general increase of remuneration in the civil service with effect from a particular date, pursuant to agreements or arrangements having effect on a general basis in the civil service (whether or not they also apply in relation to persons employed other than in the civil service), the aggregate of the payments which may be made under this section shall be increased correspondingly with effect from that date.
(ii) In this paragraph “civil service” has the meaning assigned to it by the Civil Service Regulation Act, 1956 .
(3) The amount payable to qualified parties under subsection (2) shall be allocated to each qualified party in the same proportion as the total number of first preference votes obtained by every candidate of each such qualified party at the preceding general election bears to the total number of first preference votes obtained by candidates of all qualified parties at that election.
(4) As soon as may be after the declaration of the result of a general election is completed in each constituency, the Minister shall furnish to the Public Offices Commission and the Minister for Finance, in writing:
(a) particulars of the total percentage of first preference votes obtained at the election by candidates of each party referred to in section 16 calculated in accordance with paragraph (b) of the said section,
(b) the name of each candidate elected, and
(c) the name of each candidate who was not elected to whom the greatest number of votes credited at any stage of the counting of votes at the election exceeds one quarter of the quota,
as ascertained from the copy of the notice furnished to the Minister under section 127 (2) of the Act of 1992.
(5) Every payment made under this Part to a qualified party shall be exempt from income tax and shall not be reckoned in computing the income for the purposes of the Income Tax Acts of such party.
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 17 - 21: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec17
Verified: 2024/11/21
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 19
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Political parties do not receive indirect public funding.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Based on result of previous election
Comments: The amount payable to qualified parties under subsection (2) shall be allocated to each qualified party in the same proportion as the total number of first preference votes obtained by every candidate of each such qualified party at the preceding general election bears to the total number of first preference votes obtained by candidates of all qualified parties at that election.
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 17(3): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec17
Verified: 2024/11/21
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
a . General party administration b . Election campaign activities
Comments: (i) the general administration of the party,
(ii) research, education and training,
(iii) policy formulation, and
(iv) the co-ordination of the activities of the branches and members of the party.
(b) Payments made to a qualified party shall be deemed to include provision in respect of expenditure by the party in relation to the promotion of participation by women and young persons in political activity
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 18
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 22 - 26: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec17
Verified: 2024/11/21
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 22 - 26
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure c . Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources d . Ceilings on how much money a party can raise e . Ceilings on party election expenses h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: b) The national agent of each political party and the election agent of each candidate is required to furnish to the Standards in Public Office Commission, within 56 days of polling day at the election, a statement in writing of all expenses incurred in connection with the elections;
c) Donations from non Irish citizens abroad as well as from commercial bodies who do not have a place of business in Ireland are prohibited.
e) The limits are €30,150.00 for a 3-seat constituency, €37,650.00 for a 4-seat constituency, and €45,200.00 for a 5-seat constituency.
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 22 - 26, 32, 36
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of candidate contributions received b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure c . Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources d . Ceilings on how much money a candidate can raise e . Ceilings on candidate election expenses h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: a) An unsuccessful candidate at a Dáil election is required to furnish to the Standards in Public Office Commission, within 56 days of polling day at the election, a statement indicating whether any donations exceeding €634.87 were received by them for the election and giving particulars of any such donations and the persons who made them.
c) The acceptance of a donation from a non-Irish citizen residing abroad is prohibited.
d) Elected public representatives and candidates for election may not accept a donation from a person in a particular year that exceeds €2,539.48.
Source: Electoral Act 1997, Art. 22 - 26, 32, 36
Verified: 2012/05/10
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
b . Regulated body specially created for this purpose
Comments: b) The Standards in Public Office Commission: it has six members and is chaired by a former Judge of the High Court.
Source: The Standards in Public Office Act 2001;
Official Website of the Standards in Public Office Commission: http://www.sipo.gov.ie/en/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
e . Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote) g . Different ballots used in different constituencies h . Party symbols in color j . Candidate photos in color m . Organized alphabetically p . Bilingual
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 88, 89
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
f . Same ballot papers used nation-wide j . Candidate photos in color m . Organized alphabetically p . Bilingual
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992-2011;
S.I. No. 258/2011 — Presidential Elections (Forms) Regulations 2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
c . Special counting centres
Comments: The returning officer for a constituency shall appoint a place within or convenient to the constituency as the place at which he will count the votes.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 112: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec64
Verified: 2024/11/21
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
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
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 114, 115, 116
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
d . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: d) Constituency level
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 114
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
c . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: c) Constituency - there are 3, 4, and 5 seat constituencies.
Source: Constitution, Art. 16(2)
Electoral Act 1992, Art. 119, 120, 121
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
c . By fax h . Other
Comments: h) By mail
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 127
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 127
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 127
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request e . Court order
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 125: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec64
Verified: 2024/11/21
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: Ballots not automatically recounted.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 125
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate f . Other
Comments: Any candidate or the election agent of a candidate may, at the conclusion of any count, request the returning officer to re-examine and recount all or any of the papers dealt with during that count, and the returning officer shall re-examine and recount such papers accordingly.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 125
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
i . Other
Comments: i) The Returning Officer
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 125
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 126
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The returning officer shall give public notice in the form directed by the Minister of the names and descriptions of the candidates elected and, in the case of a contested election, of the total number of votes given for each candidate, whether elected or not, of any transfer of votes and of the total number of votes credited to each candidate at the end of the count at which such transfer took place.
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 125
Verified: 2012/05/10
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: b) 1 day - The count is conducted on the day after the polling day. The results are announced when the count is completed (at the end of that day).
Source: Electoral Act 1992, Art. 114
Verified: 2012/05/10
Media and Elections
ME002
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME004
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME006
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME008
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME009
Question: In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
Answer(s):
a . Public radio b . Private radio c . Public television d . Private television e . Print media
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME015
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60 %
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME016
Question: 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:
Answer(s):
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
Source:
Verified: 2007/01/11
ME017
Question: In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
Answer(s):
a . Public radio b . Private radio c . Public television d . Private television e . Print media
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME020
Question: Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Answer:
b . Independent regulator
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
ME021
Question: Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
Answer(s):
b . Private companies
Comments: An independent Regulator, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, gives licenses to independent radio and television services. Details of the licensing procedures are available at http://www.bai.ie/?page_id=16.
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
ME023
Question: Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME031
Question: Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections? Please send us a copy.
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Broadcasting Code On Referenda and Election Coverage
Source: Official Website of the Broadcasting Authority: http://www.bai.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/20110913_RefElecCode_Eng.pdf
Verified: 2012/05/10
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: There is no obligation on broadcasters to transmit party political broadcasts during election or referenda periods.
Source: Broadcasting Act 2009, Art. 39(2): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2009/act/18/enacted/en/print.html
Verified: 2024/11/21
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
a . Yes, in presidential elections b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: https://about.rte.ie/2024/11/11/rte-announces-comprehensive-2024-general-election-coverage-across-tv-radio-and-online-to-keep-ireland-inform/
Verified: 2024/11/21
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
a . 1 day
Comments:
Source: https://www.bai.ie/en/broadcasting-authority-of-ireland-bai-moratorium-on-general-election-coverage/
Verified: 2024/11/21
ME063
Question: Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
Answer(s):
b . Outside the polling station
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME066
Question: Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/22
ME067
Question: What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
Answer(s):
a . A media department
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME068
Question: Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME069
Question: Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
Answer(s):
a . Media packs/press kits b . Press releases c . Press conferences/briefings e . Web site
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME070
Question: Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME074
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME075
Question: Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME076
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME077
Question: What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
Answer(s):
d . It monitors the media coverage of its own activities.
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME078
Question: Which of the following do you judge to be significant barriers to the EMB in communicating its message to the media?
Answer(s):
c . Cost of paid advertising limiting dissemination of voter education messages
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME079
Question: Overall, how effective do you judge the EMB's ability to communicate through the media during election campaigns to be?
Answer:
b . Quite effective
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/06/23
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source: Electoral Act 1992 and Electoral Act 1997 as amended: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1997/act/25/enacted/en/print#sec17
Verified: 2024/11/21
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
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;
Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
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
Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
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
Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Constitution: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Constitution: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Constitution: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source: The Referendum Act 2001
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source: The Referendum Act 2001
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD010
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD102
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/Referenda/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1893,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD105
Question: Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD106
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
b . Other government department
Comments: b) The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
Source: Official Website of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/Referenda/
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD107
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD108
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD011
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD012
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD127
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments: The Department of Environment, Community and Local
Source: Official Website of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/Referenda/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1893,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/Referenda/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1893,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/Referenda/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1893,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government: http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/Voting/Referenda/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1893,en.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
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)
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/10
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments: 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, or
ii by a resolution of Dáil Éireann passed within the said period after a dissolution and re-assembly of Dáil Éireann.
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: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Constitution, Art. 47, 27(5): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Constitution, Art. 47, 27(5): https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/11/21
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Conduct of elections set out in the legislation.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections f . By mail j . Other
Comments: At every polling place the returning officer shall provide a sufficient number of polling stations, conveniently distributed for the accommodation of the Dáil electors entitled to vote there. Where, by reason of any difficulty, a polling station or a sufficient number of polling stations cannot be provided at the appointed polling place, the returning officer may provide a polling station or polling stations at any other convenient place.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 17, 64, 94: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print
Verified: 2024/11/21
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country d . Members of the armed forces e . Students f . Diplomatic staff
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 14
https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print
Constitution Art. 12: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html
Verified: 2024/11/21
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
e . By mail
Comments: The ballot paper to be sent to postal voters shall be in the same form as, and indistinguishable from, the ballot papers delivered to other electors.
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 14, 64-66:
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/government_in_ireland/elections_and_referenda/voting/registering_to_vote.html#l862a3
Verified: 2024/11/21
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 14, 85, 86
Verified: 2012/05/10
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
a . At special advance polling centers b . By mail
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 14, 85, 86
Verified: 2012/05/10
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
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: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011, Art. 14, 85, 86
Verified: 2012/05/10
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992 - 2011
Verified: 2012/05/10
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: Electoral Acts 1992, Art. 101: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/enacted/en/print#sec64
Verified: 2024/11/21
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 2
The largest polling station: 2
Average per polling station:
Source
Maurice Coughlan, Principal Officer, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local, Ireland, [email protected]
Verified
2024/11/21
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