Fine Gael Leader:
Wants easier registration
The Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has outlined a strategy to entice young people to vote, preventing the reality of what he called 'the Spar and Centra generation' who are in the habit of not voting.
In an address to be delivered to Young Fine Gael in Ennis this evening, Mr Kenny said the voting patterns of young people are worrying. Just over 40% of 18 to 19 years olds voted in the last general election, and only 53% of 20 to 24 year olds.
He said this is particularly true of areas of social disadvantage, areas that have the most to gain, and the most to lose, in deciding how their country is run, and on what and on whom the State choses to spend its money.
Mr Kenny said removing barriers that stop young people voting such as having elections at weekends and make registering to vote easier, would help. He has also suggested having a free hotline so people could check if they are registered; have a voting commission to run continous programmes encouraging young people to vote.
