Mr. Conn Murray:

In response to Deputy Stanley, I would agree that it must remain as local as possible in terms of politics. The connectivity we referred to in our submission is extremely important as we go forward. That said, there are issues and concerns pertaining to the current process around the register itself. The incident referred to, while not acceptable, is more the exception than the rule. The reality we face, in the context of timelines currently imposed, leaves us in a very difficult position when faced with a substantial increase in the number of people who wish to register at the last minute.

Dublin City faced more of that than other areas with the recent referendum.

That is all very good, but the increase in the number seeking to register presents challenges. We have recommended and suggested that the move to a rolling register would remove those timeline pressures and give a greater chance of having the accuracy that is necessary for any referendum or election. In addition, we have made much of the proposal for a unique identifier. The lack of a unique identifier in the current electoral system means that registration authorities have no way of cross-checking registrations within the relevant jurisdiction or outside of it. This can lead to duplication and election fraud. We need a change in the legislative process to enable improvements in the register. There is no lack of willingness or expertise to respond to the issues that have been referred to here, but that requires change. I welcome the fact this discussion is taking place and hope it will lead to that type of change.