Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 87 and 138 together.

In law, the preparation of the register of electors is a matter for each local registration authority. It is its duty to ensure, as far as possible and with the co-operation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the register.

Authorities were required to publish the final register for 2007-08 by 1 February last and did so. In working to compile the register, authorities undertook and completed the most extensive registration campaign in decades, and we are all indebted to them for their great effort. Figures received by my Department from them indicate that, in that work, some 555,000 names were removed from last year's register and 523,000 names added. Overall, the register for 2007-08 contains more than 32,000 fewer names than last year. Regarding those eligible to vote at Dáil elections, the new register contains some 62,000 fewer names than last year.

Since the publication of the draft register in November, local authorities have continued to make corrections, with the result that the final register contains approximately 93,000 more names than at draft stage, or 86,000 more in the case of Dáil elections. On the basis of the work undertaken, I am satisfied that there has been a very significant improvement in the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the register.

The final register for 2007-08 is now available for checking, and individuals not on the register can avail themselves of supplementary registration procedures until 15 days before next polling day. We still have a few weeks to get people on the register.

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