Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The task force set out two fundamental issues about voting, the first of which concerned the need to reach by the end of the current decade a voter turnout level of at least 60% among young people aged between 18 and 24 years, as, obviously, there is a problem. The Ceann Comhairle has an interest in this issue in disseminating information on politics in a non-party political way. It is important for young people to take an interest in politics and when I speak to them, I advise them that they should support some party. Whichever party they prefer to support is their choice. They are well able to make up their own minds. It is important that young people are involved in and exposed to the political dimensions of parties and Independents so they can make up their minds. What are the Taoiseach's views as to how to give the coming generation of 18 to 24 year olds who will decide the next general election, who are now in second year or approaching junior certificate, an idea and understanding of the political process so they can make up their minds? Has he a set strategy? If so, it should apply across the board.

A recommendation has been made to increase the level of voter participation from a CSO figure of 75.5% to at least 80% in all future general elections. This is a high target. It is difficult to get people out due to long distances and the closure of some polling stations for efficiency reasons. I suppose it is political excitement that generates passions in people and encourages them to go and vote for a political party or person.

We spoke previously about the issue of election day. There appears to be a body of opinion that considers weekends favourable. The Taoiseach has made the point that in his constituency Friday or weekend voting would be disastrous. Sundays used to be taboo, but not any longer. Does the Taoiseach have a particular view in this regard? Although the calling of the most recent general election was not unexpected, it came as a bit of a shock when the Taoiseach went to the Phoenix Park bright and early on a Sunday morning. Perhaps, instead of calling elections on a Sunday, he may decide to hold elections on a Sunday. What is his view on that?

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