Pádraic McCormack (Galway West, Fine Gael)

Would it not be possible to use PPS numbers for automatic registration? It would not matter then whether young people moved from one area to another or whether they were born in one place and now live in another. PPS numbers move with people wherever they go. Could we not have a system where the register of voters would be linked to PPS numbers?

We all agree with the Minister that the process of registering needs examination in view of the difficulties we have all experienced in our areas. I welcome the extension of the window of opportunity for correcting the draft register until 8 or 9 December. However, we must develop a system where we will have a longer time allowed for correction of the draft register.

On the proposed amendment, I am convinced the Minister agrees something must be done. If this amendment is not acceptable, what system will the Minister recommend that will allow automatic registration of people at the age of 18?

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