National Youth Council of Ireland

Comhairle Náisiúnta na nÓg

 

MEDIA RELEASE:                                                                                          March 27th 2012

 

Youth Council dismay at weekday referendum date

The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) has expressed disappointment at the Government decision to hold the referendum on the European Stability treaty on a Thursday, as this will disenfranchise many young people in education, training or in work away from home.

 

“It is disappointing that Government have chosen a weekday for the referendum, as the majority of young people surveyed+ indicated that weekend polling was very important to encourage their participation,” said James Doorley, NYCI Assistant Director.
“It is particularly disappointing given that both Fine Gael and Labour supported weekend voting* in opposition,” continued Mr Doorley.

 

“In light of the Government decision, they now need to provide information to those young people who may need to change their voter registration to their current address on how and until when they can do this.”

 

“Furthermore, given the confusion and lack of information around the last referendum on Oireachtas inquiries, it is vital that sufficient information is provided this time for young voters to make a well-informed decision,” concluded Mr Doorley.

 

ENDS

For further information, please contact Daniel Meister, Communications Officer at NYCI on 087 781 4903 or 01 425 5955 or email communications@nyci.ie

 

Notes to Editors:

National Youth Council of Ireland

The National Youth Council of Ireland is a membership-led umbrella organisation that represents and supports the interests of voluntary youth organisations and uses its collective experience to act on issues that impact on young people.