Govt. To Explore Lowering The Voting Age To 16 For Certain Ballots.

Monday, 24 May 2021 16:21

It would mean thousands of Kildare teenagers could vote.

A Government Minister has said he'll explore every avenue to give people over the age of 16 the right to vote in certain elections.

Such a move would mean 5,000 16 and 17 year olds in Kildare could register their preference.

Malcolm Noonan made the promise in response to a bill that would lower the voting age to 16 for local and European elections.

Fianna Fáil Senator Malcolm Byrne has brought forward a bill to make that happen in time for the 2024 elections.

Junior Minister at the Department of Housing and Local Government Malcolm Noonan says it's something he'll examine:

More from Local News

Taxi Driver Protest Suspended Pending Outcome Of Talks

The action has been suspended pending the outcome of a meeting at Government buildings next week.
Lights Could Make Anti-Social Behaviour Worse: Council Says No To Security Lighting At Kilcock Playground

A motion from Social Democrats Councillor Peter Melrose had called for lighting to improve passive surveillance, but officials say previous attempts in other playgrounds failed to curb antisocial behaviour - and in some cases made it worse.
BREAKING: Green Light For €1.3bn Drainage Scheme Serving Kildare After Court Agreement

The major project is seen as crucial to the provision of future housing infrastructure.
Kildare Man Nigel Cullen Awarded With National Bravery Award After Saving Young Man From House Fire

Audio

More than 17 people have been recognised at this year’s National Bravery Awards in Leinster House
Council Diverts €17K Carbury Castle Resoration Funding To Christmas Lights - Maynooth Gets Lion's Share

€11,000 has been assigned to Maynooth, as part of €17,000 redistributed from the Carbury Castle Restoration Project under Local Property Tax rules.
Lakeside–Dara Park Redevelopment: Newbridge Residents Urged To Take Part In Survey

An online anonymous survey is now live and will remain open until 4pm on Friday, January 16th, 2026.
Irish Troops Come Under "Small-Arms Fire" In Lebanon

Defence Minister Helen McEntee is condemning the incident, and says it's an unacceptable breach of the UN Security Council Resolution.
€17,000 Paid Out For Pothole Damage In Kildare - But Some Claims Now Deemed ‘Act Of God’

IPB Insurance, which manages complaints on behalf of Kildare County Council, is the insurance company some people appear to be having issues with.