Fine Gael election candidate Supriya Singh has raised concerns about poor turnout at local elections and has called for a new polling station to be introduced into the Belmayne – Parkside – Beltree area.
Singh recently made the request with the local Election Manager in a bid to boost turnout, saying that nearly 15,000 families have been added to the area in recent years.
“The landscape of Belmayne, Clarehall, Clongriffin, and Donaghmede has undergone a dramatic transformation since the 2019 elections, marked by a staggering surge in population due to extensive housing developments.”
“While these areas have become vibrant and diverse communities, the challenge of ensuring robust voter turnout persists, with past elections reflecting a poor turnout.”
Singh, who is running for Fine Gael in Donaghmede in June’s local elections, said the rapid population growth underscores “the urgency of ensuring a robust voter turnout to truly represent the diverse voices residing in these areas during local elections.”
“This is not just a request; it’s a call to action for democracy, for inclusivity, and for the voices of our vibrant community to be heard loud and clear.”
“The existing two polling stations in Donaghmede simply cannot adequately serve the needs of our growing population,” she said.
“We are at a pivotal moment where every resident deserves the opportunity to cast their vote conveniently and without obstacles. It’s time to stand up for our democratic values and ensure every voice is counted.”
Singh said that the Election Manager will discuss the issue at a meeting early in the year with their logistics team.
Turnout in the Donaghmede constituency was 43.9% last time out, and Singh has called on voters in the area to get themselves registered.
“Anyone who is a resident in Ireland, is eligible to vote in local elections, irrespective of their nationality. Additionally, for those who have recently changed residences, updating your address is a straightforward process on www.checktheregister.ie or voter.ie I am trying to ensure that every eligible voice is heard, and every resident has the opportunity to shape our community’s future through the power of the vote.”
“Establishing a new polling station, in the Belmayne Clongriffin area would ensure a smoother, more inclusive voting experience for the community,” she said.