The Daily Star Ireland
In anticipation of the general election, here’s a guide to understanding the voting system and tips to ensure your vote counts.
Understanding PR and STV
Ireland’s elections use a system called Proportional Representation by the Single Transferable Vote (PR-STV). This method, in place since 1922 and part of the 1937 constitution, is unique, with Malta being the only other European country using it for general elections.
The key aspect of this system is its proportional nature, aiming for fairness in translating votes into seats, even if not perfectly proportional. Voters rank candidates by preference, and these preferences are considered in subsequent counts until all seats are filled.
The Secret Ballot
Your vote is confidential. After marking your ballot, fold it and place it in the ballot box to ensure its secrecy.
Avoid Selfies
While there are no specific laws against taking selfies in polling stations, revealing your ballot’s contents is an offense. Refrain from posing with your ballot or writing messages on it, as this could invalidate your vote.
Bringing dogs to polling stations has become popular on social media. Although not explicitly addressed in Irish electoral law, check if dogs are allowed at your polling station due to health and safety considerations.
Voting Procedure
Polling stations operate from 7am to 10pm. Although a polling card is not required, bring identification as it may be requested.
Voting with the PR-STV system is simple. Each voter receives a ballot paper with candidate photos, party affiliations, addresses, and occupations. Voters rank candidates by placing 1, 2, 3, etc., next to their names. The number of candidates varies by constituency.
The PR-STV system is intuitive, allowing voters to rank as many candidates as they wish, thereby expressing multiple preferences with one vote.
Avoiding Spoiled Votes
Many voters rank only a few preferences, often from 1 to 5. Ensure clarity in your choices. If you prefer one candidate, place a 1 next to their name. A single X is usually accepted as a clear preference, but multiple Xs will spoil your vote.
Similarly, placing the number 1 next to multiple candidates will invalidate your vote, as the order of preferences will be unclear.
