Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I wish to seek the adjournment of the Dáil to discuss a matter of national importance namely, the indications by the Taoiseach that he will hold the next general election on a Thursday, thereby disenfranchising thousands of students and other people who may work away from home during the week. It flies in the face of democracy not to hold the election on a weekend where a majority will have the time to go to their local polling station. The 2001 South Tipperary by-election was held on a Saturday and, contrary to the Taoiseach's experience, the turn out was huge, especially among young people who were pleased to be back at home to exercise their democratic rights. This House needs to be given an opportunity to debate the issue.

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