Ms Catherine Lane:

I concur with what Mr. Doorley added to the conversation. We are aware there are barriers to registration. It was raised by many of our members in past when we examined that particular issue. For example, a person having to go to the Garda station to get a form signed would be a big barrier for many women, for example, for those living with an addiction, on the basis of their legal status or for many of other reasons. We would be supportive of anything that can make the process more straightforward and accessible. The research function of the commission could offer us a greater understanding of the differences in voter turnout for men and women and what we need to be mindful of when we are planning in that respect. We know from other jurisdictions that voter turnout among women can be lower in local elections, even though the many functions and services provided by the local authorities are critical to women and families in local communities. There is definitely a disconnect there. We would be interested in having a better understanding and being able to respond, in an evidence based way, to support equality in terms of voter turnout and engagement.