Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The commission will report directly to the Houses of the Oireachtas. It will have to produce a three-year strategy. It is absolutely vital to have the data and quantitative and qualitative research element there. It is a well-made point.

On the issue of local elections and pre-registration for those aged 16 and 17, it is my understanding that voting for 16-year-olds could be introduced without legislation by the Minister. I may be corrected on that. I certainly agree with the Senator. I would love to see us move to a situation where, at least for local elections, the voting age could be reduced to 16. It would spark a huge engagement in our electoral system. Young people want to have their say. We have seen that with the climate strikes. It would be most welcome it that could be pursued.

I agree with the Senator on his point about fieldwork. Calling to houses is a vital component of that. On the condition of the register, it is important to say that local government and authorities have performed invaluable work over the years in respect of the electoral register. We do appreciate that and we want to continue that role for them within this particular Bill. Perhaps Ms Woods and Mr. Ryan want to come in on specific points raised by the Senator. I thank him for his positive comments.