Why Should I Vote? The Upcoming General Election and Why Your Voice Matters
The General Election is happening on Friday, 29th November, and it’s coming up fast!
If this is your first time voting or if you’re still unsure about how it all works, don’t worry- Holly has got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know, broken down step by step.
What is a General Election?
Ireland is a democracy, which means its citizens vote to decide who will represent them in the Dáil Éireann (our parliament). A General Election is when the people of Ireland cast their votes to elect representatives who will make decisions on how the country will be run for the next five years—or sooner if another election is called.
Who Can You Vote For?
The candidates on your ballot depend on your constituency (the area where you live). You can find your constituency using this link.
On your ballot, you’ll see names from political parties or independents.
- Political parties: Groups of people with shared views, such as Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Sinn Féin, the Green Party (currently in government), Labour, Social Democrats, People Before Profit, Aontú, and more.
- Independents: Individuals who aren’t aligned with any political party.
Feeling lost? That’s totally normal! You can use resources like this helpful tool to see which party or candidate aligns best with your views.
How Do I Vote?
Register to Vote
First, you need to be registered. If you’re not sure, check here.
On Election Day
- Bring your polling card, ID, and yourself to your designated polling station (check your station here).
- At the station, the poll workers will check you in and give you a ballot paper.
Casting Your Vote
- Head to a private voting booth.
- Rank the candidates on your ballot in order of preference: 1 for your top choice, 2 for your next, and so on. You don’t have to rank all the candidates, but make sure to start with ‘1’ or your vote won’t count.
- You can take however long you want deciding who to vote for.
- Avoid using ticks, crosses, or any other marks—they could spoil your vote.
Submit Your Ballot
- Ensure your ballot paper is stamped before putting it in the ballot box, or it won’t be counted.
- Once you’re ready, pop your ballot into the box. That’s it—you’ve voted!
Does My Vote Even Matter?
YES!!! Your vote does matter; the results of this election determine our future! As the young people of Ireland, our voices matter more than ever. These results will arguably affect our lives more than any other generations voting. If you have worries about climate change, affording a house and mortgage, student fees, student accommodation, all of this will be affected by the results of this election. Even your one vote could result in the change we want to see.
The truth is don’t complain about all the issues Ireland has if you’re not going to be an active citizen and vote. Before 1918 women did not have the right to vote, so if you’re considering not voting remember all the women that struggled for you to be able to share your voice! I will carry each one of them in my heart when I am on the way to vote. I came across these quotes and they might be aimed more at the American election, but they can still be applied to the importance of voting in our election.
Nervous? That’s Totally Normal!
My first time voting was in the referendum back in March and I remember being so nervous, you don’t have to worry at all. It’s pretty simple once you do your research and are comfortable with how you vote!
Need more info?
- RTE News has a dedicated election section on their app and website with daily updates.
- Team Missy is here for you too! Drop us a message on Instagram if you need help or have any questions—we’ve got your back.
Remember: Your vote is your voice. Make it count this November!