Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 224: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to concerns that immigrant voters may be deterred from registering by the requirement that they visit their local Garda station; the reason for this requirement; if he has explored alternatives, such as that in the Six Counties where all registration is done through the electoral office with no police involvement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19195/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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In law, the preparation of the Register of Electors is a matter for each local registration authority. It is their duty to ensure, as far as possible and with the cooperation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Register.

Authorities were required to publish the Final Register for 2009/10 by 1 February 2009 and this is now available for checking. Applications for entry in the Final Register which were made in the course of its compilation did not require attendance at a Garda station.

Individuals not on the Register can avail of the supplement to the Register up until 15 days before the next polling day (i.e. applications must be with the authority not later than Monday 18 May in the case of the Local and European elections and Dáil Bye-Elections being held on 5 June 2009). Electoral law provides that each application for entry to the supplement to the Register must be signed in the applicant's local Garda station in the presence of a member of the Garda Síochána, who must first be satisfied as to the person's identity before signing, dating and stamping the form. The Garda may request photographic identification. Where the applicant is unable to go to the local Garda station, and sets out the reason in writing, the form can be signed in the presence of an official of their registration authority. Again, photographic identification may be required.

If neither option is viable due to physical illness or physical disability, the application form must be accompanied by a medical certificate.

I consider that the current arrangements strike a reasonable balance between having a flexible supplement facility and, at the same time, ensuring that there are adequate measures in place to counteract any possible abuse.