According to The Irish Examiner, as Ireland prepares for its first general election since 2020, many voters may be wondering about the voting process. Here’s everything you need to know about casting your ballot on Friday, November 29.
What to Bring
Your essential items are:
- Photo identification (passport, driving licence, Public Services Card, workplace or student ID, or travel document)
- Polling card (optional, but helpful)
Polling Station Basics
- Stations are open from 7 am to 10 pm
- You can vote at any time during these hours
- Staff will ask for your name and address
- You’ll receive a stamped ballot paper (ensure it’s stamped)
How to Vote
Ireland uses the proportional representation single transferable vote (PR-STV) system. This means:
- You can vote for as few or as many candidates as you like
- Rank candidates in order of preference using numbers
- Write “1” beside your first choice, “2” beside your second, and so on
- You can continue ranking candidates as far down as you wish
Important Voting Tips
- Use a pencil (provided or bring your own)
- Do not use X or tick marks
- If you only want to vote for one candidate, just write “1”
- Leave boxes empty for candidates you don’t want to support
- Do not take photos inside the polling station
After Voting
- Drop your completed ballot in the ballot box
- Votes will start being counted on Saturday, November 30
- Results expected from Saturday evening
Voting is your opportunity to have a say in Ireland’s future. Make sure you’re prepared and exercise your democratic right.