Dundalk IT graduates invited to vote in Seanad University Franchise Expansion

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) graduates are set to benefit from changes to the rules for electing University Members of Seanad Éireann, which are aimed at making the franchise more inclusive and extending voting rights to graduates of a broader range of higher education institutions in Ireland.

DkIT will be part of the new Higher Education constituency and graduates can now check their eligibility and register to vote in future Seanad elections at Seanadvoter.ie.

The new constituency will apply to any Seanad election ordered after 21 March 2025. The next election in January 2025 will follow the current rules unless there’s an earlier Dáil dissolution.

This is a pivotal moment for expanding democratic participation in Seanad Éireann elections. To participate in future Seanad elections graduates are asked to do the following:

• Check Eligibility:
  • You must be an Irish citizen.
  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • You must hold a degree (Bachelor level or higher, not honorary) from a designated institution.

• Visit SeanadVoter.ie.
• Go to the section "New applicant for the Seanad Éireann Higher Education constituency."
• Click "Apply Now" and complete your application.
• Prefer paper? Download the application form on the portal and submit it to the Central Registration Authority (CRA).

For help and further information, check these resources provided by the Central Registration Authority (CRA) at SeanadVoter.ie:

• FAQs
• Application Guide
• Voter Eligibility
• List of Designated Institutions

It is important to note that DkIT is a Designated Institution responsible for the verifications of qualifications/awards on behalf of the Central Registration Authority (CRA). Any queries regarding the Seanad elections, and communications relating to same, should be directed to the CRA not the HEI, in this case Dundalk Institute of Technology.

The CRA is responsible for the Register of Electors and the management of the Seanad elections. Any queries regarding the Seanad election should be directed to the CRA at: applications@SeanadVoter.ie.