James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 37:

In page 16, between lines 40 and 41, to insert the following paragraph:

"(a) such reports on the Nedap Powervote system which present a comparative analysis of the reliability, security, integrity and verifiability of that system as compared with other systems of electronic voting which are in use in other countries, or which are available for acquisition,".

We should not tie down the functions of the commission, which are fairly narrow. It should be empowered to take the Nedap Powervote system and compare it with other systems and its hands should not be tied as to the reliability, security, integrity and verifiability of the system.

Amendment No. 38 seeks to include a provision on such reports as deemed necessary on measures required to make electronic voting accessible to all disabled people such as to enable them to exercise independently their right to vote by secret ballot. I saw e-voting machines displayed in many unsuitable places. In two or three places the machines were on tables where it was nearly impossible for those in wheelchairs to access them. We must ensure that that does not happen on polling days, particularly as I have heard of instances where people could not access the models and candidates pushed such people to get a postal vote. That is unfair.

Every member of society, irrespective of disability, should be able to access e-voting machines. It is important the machine is placed on a table or bench that allows everyone to access it, which is the reason behind the amendment. People's rights are being infringed because they have told me that they would not go to the polling station due to the way in which the machine was set up. That may not apply in urban centres but in small rural polling booths, there will be problems. It will not be the fault of the presiding officers who will put the e-voting machines on surfaces they feel are suitable, but guidelines should be put in place. These should be stand-alone units rather than machines to be placed on tables, like the models which were on display. I do not know if such machines were modified for polling booths.

Every polling station should also have a bay for disabled parking at its entrance. People with disabilities who go out to vote often find they have to get out of their car and into their wheelchair in crowded conditions and though I know this is a matter for each local authority, provision for such bays should be part of the general guidelines from the Department. I am glad many public places have improved but not all public buildings have markings or areas for disabled parking. This should be considered as a matter of urgency.