West Belfast Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Essential Information for Voters

Published: 16 May, 2009

Essential Information for Voters

The European election will take place on Thursday 4th June.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm.

The following are frequently asked questions that may be of use to you.

What Identification can I use to vote?

Any one of the photographic ID documents specified by law:

  • An Electoral Identity Card
  • A driving licence with your photograph
  • An Irish passport
  • A passport issued by the United Kingdom or any other Member State of the European Community
  • A Translink 60+ SmartPass
  • A Translink Senior SmartPass
  • A Translink Blind Person's SmartPass

I have moved address and the address on my identification is my old one. Can I use it?

Yes. The identification document only has to satisfy the polling station staff of your identity, not your address.

Does it matter if my identification is out of date?

No, as long as you can still be identified from the photograph.

What is the deadline for applying for an Electoral ID Card?

The deadline for applying for an Electoral Identity Card for this election is 22 May. If you apply after this date you may receive your card in time for the election, but it is not guaranteed.

When will I get my poll card?

Poll cards will be posted out approximately 10 days before the election.

Do I need my poll card to vote?

No. The poll card provides you with details of where you need to go to vote and the list of acceptable identity documents. As the card also states your electoral number, it is helpful if you take it with you when you go to vote, but you can vote without it.

What can I do if I realise after 14 May that I need an absent vote?

The only grounds for being granted an absent vote after this date are if you take ill unexpectedly. If this is the case the deadline for making an application is 27 May.

When will I receive my postal vote?

Most postal votes will be issued during the week commencing 18 May and must be returned to the Area Electoral Office before the close of the poll at 10.00pm on 4 June.

When will my appointed proxy receive their poll card?

Proxy poll cards will be sent out around 28 May.

I have a visual impairment. How can I vote?

You have three options. You can:

  • ask the Presiding Officer at the polling station to mark your ballot paper for you; or
  • ask to be assisted by a companion; or
  • use the selector device which has embossed markings and braille numbering.

Can someone go in with me to help me vote?

A companion or the Presiding Officer at the station may assist a voter with disabilities. This covers those who are incapacitated by:

  • blindness or other disability; or
  • Inability to read.