Government looks to inspire electorate to vote

Tue, 05 Jan 2016

Uncontested elections and poor voter turnout should be a thing of the past.

That's according to government which is issuing a newsletter in a bid to try and inspire people to vote in April's local authority elections.

The four page document states it's an "ideal time" to make a contribution and encourages people to try and influence decisions which will shape the future of their community.

Average turnout at recent elections has been 30 per cent - although this has halved in some areas; in addition some elections went ahead uncontested.

The Department of Infrastructure says it's important to remember the services which local authorities are responsible for cost around £60 million - and the scope, structure and financing of these are changing.