Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State mentioned stamping out abuse and we all want that. In the past, I have highlighted suggestions that would help matters. Deputy Ó Snodaigh mentioned the need for a rolling register. We could look North to see how it operates there. They may not have a perfect system, but they certainly have a better system in that there is a rolling register. In terms of trying to get onto the register there, the system is the same at all times of the year.

The key issue here is the need to ensure that the applicant to the register resides in the constituency, is eligible to be included on the register of electors and to stamp out abuse. This amendment is an attempt to make a small change that could make a significant difference. The Minister of State will know from campaigning in local government and Dáil elections over the years that there is a huge problem in regard to the supplement. First there is the short time frame, but there is also the problem of the need to sign the form at the Garda station. This can be very difficult for people in rural areas or because of people's work schedules.

The Minister of State mentioned that condition may be waived by way of validating an application in writing. It is difficult for people to do that as people are not facilitated to do so through the use of community centres throughout the country for registration purposes as suggested by Deputy Ó Snodaigh for Dublin. That would be one step in the right direction. I am disappointed the Government does not intend to accept the amendment as it was made in a positive spirit and would copperfasten the system and ensure the electoral register was not abused by way of late entries to the supplement.

See this speech in context