Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I want two issues in relation to next year's local elections discussed in the House in the presence of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The first refers to the election turnout which, as we know, has been falling dramatically in recent years. The first time I stood in the local elections in 1985 almost 65% of the people voted. If current trends are anything to go by, the turnout next summer will probably be between 40% and 45%. All political parties must address this issue. We should consider the introduction of measures such as weekend or two day voting to stem the tide. This issue needs to be urgently addressed by the House and the Minister.