The first signs of confusion over the move of Laois voters into the South Kildare constituency emerged during Friday’s referendum, when a number of frustrated voters left the old Rath National School without being able to cast their vote.
It is thought that up to 200 people who traditionally voted in Rath arrived there, only to find out that they instead had to cast their vote in nearby Killenard.
In one instance, one man didn’t receive a polling card and went to the Rath school, only to find out that he could cast his vote there. He had no information on where he was to vote and so left in frustration.
“He was disgusted and embarrassed and walked out without voting,” Cllr Mulhall said.
Cllr Tom Mulhall says the situation is far from ideal, particularly as local elections are due to be held next summer and a general election could be held at any time.
“It is very much in limbo,” Cllr Mulhall said.
He said Killenard is confirmed as the voting centre for those in the Rath area transferred into the South Kildare constituency. Cllr Mulhall said this will affect people from Rath, Jamestown and other areas nearby.
“Their place to vote has been switched to Killenard and a lot of people are not going to be happy with that. It’s a ridiculous change,” he said.
The issue was raised with Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan on Monday morning, by Cllr Mulhall.
“I will be working with Deputy Martin Heydon on the issue,” Cllr Mulhall said.
He understands those voting in the local elections may continue to do so in Rath while the general election polling could continue in Rath.
Many voters assume that they will always be voting in their usual spot. “Most people receive their polling card and then simply put it on the mantle piece or window sill until polling day,” Cllr Mulhall said.
SEE ALSO – 10 years of Food Glorious Food at the Electric Picnic
