Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly has introduced a Bill to reduce the voting age from 18 to 16, which has been endorsed as a recommendation since the 2014 Convention on the Constitution. Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed openness to discussing the proposal, while Tánaiste Simon Harris raised concerns about the timing. Farrelly argues that if 16-year-olds can work and pay taxes, they should have the right to influence how their contributions are spent. His experience running mock elections shows potential for youth engagement and reflects broader societal attitudes toward young voters.
Mr Farrelly stated that allowing 16-year-olds to vote recognizes their role in society as they work, pay taxes, and deserve to influence how funds are allocated.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin suggested that reducing the voting age to 16 merits "serious consideration", indicating a potential openness to the proposal.
Mr Farrelly highlighted the years of engagement with young people in mock elections, where their voting patterns closely matched those of adults in actual elections.
Despite concerns from Tánaiste Simon Harris, Mr Farrelly emphasized that many passionate 16- and 17-year-olds are eager to participate in the democratic process.
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