PEOPLE WISHING TO vote in this month’s European and local elections, as well as those in areas that will have by-elections, have just three days to get registered to vote.
Inclusion on the supplementary register of electors closes on Tuesday and a number of youth organisations want young people in particular to make sure they have their say on 23 May.
According to the CSO, the 2011 general election saw an increase of 12 per cent in voter turnout for young people on the previous general election.However, around 50,000 young people turn 18 every year in Ireland and the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) and SpunOut.ie want to make sure their voices are heard.
A previous NYCI study found that 26 per cent of 18-25 year olds were not registered to vote, rising to 36% among 18-21 year-olds.
Many young people lose out on the opportunity to cast their ballot because they are studying or working away from home, unaware they can change their polling station to one near their college, university or workplace.
James Doorley, Deputy Director of the NYCI said that voting was the best way for young people to be heard.
“It’s vital that young people go out and vote as it’s one of the best means which to get politicians and political parties to engage with issues such as youth unemployment, cost of living, mental health services and many others that impact on the daily lives of young people.”
To learn how to get on the register, SpunOut has posted instructions here.
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