29 May 2009
The Electoral Commission will be accrediting electoral observers for the first time in Northern Ireland for those who wish to attend and monitor proceedings at next month’s European Parliamentary elections.
Individuals and groups with members over the age of 16 can be accredited as Electoral Observers , which will give them access to polling stations, the issuing and receipt of ballot papers, and the count.
The scheme has been introduced to improve the openness and transparency of Northern Ireland’s electoral system.
Seamus Magee, Head of the Electoral Commission’s office in Northern Ireland, said:
“Individuals and groups with members over the age of 16 can, for the first time, play an active part in our democratic process. It is an important move which demonstrates our commitment to ensuring integrity and transparency in the election process.”
The Commission has produced a Code of Practice to regulate the attendance of all observers at such proceedings for organisations and individuals keen to take part in any election or referendum that takes place in Northern Ireland, details of which, along with an application form, are available on www.electoralcommission.org.uk.
The Electoral Commission is also reminding eligible voters that the deadline to register to vote for this year’s European Parliamentary elections is 19 May.
Application forms can be found on www.aboutmyvote.com or by calling our free helpline on 0800 0323 700. Those needing an Electoral Identity Card to vote on the day must return their complete application form by 22 May.
Ends
For further information on the Electoral Commission or to find out more about electoral observers or registering to vote, please contact David Cullen or Chris Brown on 028 90 347 319 or email dcullen@webershandwick.com. Out of office hours and on weekends, please call 07770 886 927 / 911.
Notes to editors
1. The Electoral Commission is an independent body set up by the UK Parliament. Its aim is integrity and public confidence in the UK’s democratic process. It regulates party and election finance and set standards for well-run elections
2. A corporate objective of the Commission is complete and accurate electoral registers, supported by well-run electoral registration process.
3. In July 2006, the UK Parliament passed legislation which allows individuals and organisations to observe proceedings at United Kingdom elections. The Electoral Commission a statutory duty to administer an accreditation scheme for all observers at UK elections - except for Scottish local government elections, which are a devolved matter. The observer provisions in respect of Northern Ireland came into force on 1 July 2008.
