James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I support the calls made for a debate on updating the register of electors because, as we are all aware, it is a shambles. In bygone days, the register was the responsibility of the revenue collector, who was more commonly known in rural areas as the rates collector. However, the embargo imposed by this Government on the recruitment of local authority personnel has resulted in significant staffing shortages. It is a tedious job to visit the various parishes in a county to ensure everyone over the age of 18 is listed on the register.

Most local authorities, including Longford County Council, have introduced a student scheme. I was ahead of my time on this matter when I suggested to the officials responsible for the register of electors in my local authority that they should employ a few students over the summer to work on the register. This is a good idea which should be promoted because large numbers of third level students regularly seek employment with local authorities.