Registering to vote/updating your details on the Register of Electors
Many of the provision of the Electoral Reform Act 2022 (the Act) commenced on 13th October 2022. The Full Act can be viewed here:
The main effects are:
Continuous registration – this means that the same process is in place all year around and your record can be updated at any time (up to 15 days before an electoral event).
Use of PPSNs in the process – in addition to enabling quick and easy online registration at checktheregister.ie, the use of PPSNs will enable confirmation of applicant identity data checks to protect the integrity of the register. It will help local authorities to ensure that the register is accurate and that everyone is only registered once. The data sharing involved in the cross-check with the Department of Social Protection is provided for in the Act.
Most people will no longer need to get their forms signed at the local Garda stations.
People will be responsible for registering and maintaining their own information – registration authorities will continue to work with their communities to maintain and manage the register with a view to ensuring it is complete and accurate.
There are new application forms, online processes and requirements that must be met when applying to join the Register of Electors arising from the Act.
Even if your details haven’t changed everyone is being asked to check and complete their details (by adding their PPSN, date of birth and Eircode).
A data cross check will be carried out using your PPSN and date of birth to confirm your details. This is aimed at enhancing the accuracy of the register of electors.
In addition to using the www.checktheregister.ie facility, members of the public can contact the Franchise Unit by telephone (074) 91 72273 or by email [email protected]
