Young people urged to register to vote before Tuesday deadline

Ottoline Spearman

The National Youth Council of Ireland has urged all eligible young voters to register today for the presidential election before the deadline passes.

The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, October 7th.

The National Youth Council of Ireland (NCYI) is also highlighting the simplicity of online registration.

Kathryn Walsh, NYCI’s Director for Policy and Advocacy, said: "Ireland’s youth population is significant, with over 630,000 young people aged 18 to 29 eligible to register to vote in Ireland. This represents almost 1 in 5 of those of voting age in Ireland.

“This means young people could prove hugely influential in the coming presidential election. A recent RED C poll we commissioned showed that most people believe that politicians are not representing young people’s interests.

"This has to change. And one of the most effective ways to change it, is to get young people registered and using their vote."

The presidential election takes place on Friday, October 24th.

Ms Walsh added that they encourage more than 62,000 young people who have recently turned 18 and are now eligible to vote to register.

“We know from our work with young people that the vast majority want to vote, but not all are aware of the deadline or of the need to register," Ms Walsh said.

For those unsure whether they are registered, the NYCI advises checking online at www.checktheregister.ie. For those not yet registered, the process can now be completed online at the same site. You will need to provide your PPS number, date of birth and Eircode.

The NYCI provides further information and FAQs for first-time voters on youth.ie/vote.