David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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457. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the way in which blind persons may exercise their right to vote in an independent manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18922/14]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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My Department is reviewing the legislative, logistical and financial implications of independent voting, including voting by blind and visually impaired persons. In this context, my Department is considering a range of options including the use of tactile ballot paper templates in consultation with relevant State and other interest groups. More generally, my Department endeavours to ensure that the voting process is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Currently there are two options available to assist voters with a visual impairment to vote at their local polling station; they may avail of companion voting or they may seek the assistance of the presiding officer. Other measures in place to assist such voters include the display of a large print version of the ballot paper in polling stations and the inclusion of candidates’ photographs and party emblems on the ballot paper.

I understand that the National Disability Authority intends to carry out trials in June 2014 on the use of ballot paper templates at mock elections that would typify Irish electoral scenarios. The outcome of these trials will further inform the deliberative process in relation to the use of tactile ballot paper templates. In any review of electoral practice, it is necessary to ensure that an appropriate balance is maintained between accessibility and the secrecy and integrity of the ballot, having regard to our electoral system.