Guide to Voting in the 2024 Local Elections in Ireland
How to Register to Vote
The 2024 local elections in Ireland are set for 7th June 2024, offering a pivotal opportunity to shape local governance. If you reside in the Kenmare Municipal District of County Kerry, Tim Clifford is number one for your area, please put him on your ballot paper.
This guide created by Tim Clifford will walk you through the process of registering to vote, what to expect on election day and selecting candidates on the ballot. Make sure you’re ready to vote and make your voice heard in these important elections. Register before 20th May 2024 to be eligible to participate. Let’s break down everything you need to know to prepare for the big day.
You can watch the video on this page as it will give you an overview if you are eligible to vote and the voting process.
I also have a guide in Ukrainian for new voters
Before you can select your candidates, you need to be registered to vote. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit checktheregister.ie: To register, visit checktheregister.ie. You can register entirely online, and there’s a helpful video on the website that guides you through the process.
- Check Your Registration Status: Use the search function on the website to determine if you’re already registered. If you’re not, follow the online registration process.
- Complete the Online Registration Form: Fill out the form with accurate information, including your name, address, date of birth, and nationality.
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
Irish citizens, British citizens, EU citizens, or non-EU citizens residing in Ireland for at least 6 months prior to the election. - Submit the Form Online: Once you’ve completed the form, submit it online. Follow the website’s instructions for any additional documentation, such as proof of identity or residence.
- Receive Confirmation: After submitting your form, you’ll receive confirmation of your registration. Keep this for your records.
Remember, you need to register by 20th May 2024 to be eligible to vote on 7th June 2024.
What to Expect on Election Day
On election day, 7th June 2024, here's what you'll need to do:
- Visit Your Polling Station: Your polling card, which you’ll receive by post, will indicate where to vote. Bring your polling card and a valid form of ID, like a passport or driver’s licence.
- Follow the Instructions: At the polling station, you’ll be guided through the voting process. After casting your vote, submit your ballot into the ballot box.
- Await the Results: Once the polls close, the votes are counted. Given the PR-STV system, the counting process might take time. Follow the results online or through local news outlets to see the outcome.
Selecting Candidates on the Ballot
In the local elections, you’ll vote using a system called proportional representation through the single transferable vote (PR-STV). This system allows you to rank candidates in order of preference, giving you more flexibility in choosing who represents you. Here’s how it works:
- Understanding PR-STV: Proportional representation through the single transferable vote means that you can rank candidates in order of preference. This system ensures a fair representation of votes, as candidates with the most preferences across all ballots are elected.
- Review Your Options: On election day, you’ll receive a ballot paper with the names of all candidates running in your local election area. In the Kenmare Municipal District of County Kerry, one of the candidates will be Tim Clifford from the Social Democrats.
- Rank Your Preferences: On the ballot paper, you can rank candidates by placing a “1” next to your top choice, a “2” next to your second choice, and so on. You can rank as many candidates as you like or just your top choice. The more candidates you rank, the greater your influence in the election process.
- Mark Your Ballot Correctly: To ensure your vote is valid, make sure you clearly mark your choices with numbers. Avoid placing any other symbols or marks on the ballot paper, as this could invalidate your vote.
- Submit Your Ballot: Once you’ve completed your rankings, fold the ballot paper and place it in the ballot box at your polling station. If you have any questions, the polling station staff can assist you.
By following these steps, you’ll be ready to vote in the 2024 local elections in Ireland. If you’re in the Kenmare Municipal District of County Kerry, vote number 1 for Tim Clifford.
Make sure to register by 20th May 2024, and remember, your vote counts!