Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The issue of Irish citizens abroad having a vote in our elections and referendums is an interesting topic for debate. I thank the Deputy for the opportunity it gives me to set out some of the issues involved and the Government's approach.

Electoral law in Ireland provides that in order to be able to vote at elections and referendums, a person's name must be entered in the register of electors for a constituency in the State in which the person ordinarily resides. In the normal course, this means that Irish people who have left home on a permanent basis do not have a vote in Irish elections. However, postal voting is provided for certain categories of persons who are entered in the register of electors but who may find themselves abroad at the time. Typically, this would include members of the Defence Forces and Irish diplomats.

The question of voting by Irish citizens other than those resident in a constituency is not new. It has been the subject of much consideration and deliberation over the years, both here in the House and more generally. The extension of voting rights would require careful consideration of a range of complex matters of principle and practicality. These include the question of which citizens should be entitled to vote from abroad. The Irish diaspora is extensive. Consideration would need to be given to the potential impact of many thousands of voters living outside the jurisdiction on the outcome of elections and referendums. More practical concerns about the costs of implementation and the integrity and secrecy of the ballot would also need to be considered to ensure that decisions on change are fully informed.

The Government is committed to reform. The programme for Government sets out a comprehensive range of constitutional reform measures including the establishment of a constitutional convention. One of the questions to be examined by the convention is giving citizens the right to vote at Irish embassies in presidential elections. Through the convention we will be best able to address all of the complex issues that arise. The Government will consider proposals for change to electoral law in the light of any recommendation for change that might arise from this process.

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