Dublin: Today, the Irish people await the outcome of a pivotal decision on potential changes to the country’s constitution regarding family and care issues. Vote counting for the referendums, which commenced yesterday at 7 a.m. and concluded at 10 p.m., will commence today at 9 a.m..
The Electoral Officer stationed at the main centre in Dublin Castle will announce the results after receiving information about the votes counted in the respective local counties, starting with county-wise announcements.
Counting for the family referendum will take precedence, with results expected by the afternoon. Subsequently, counting for the care referendum will ensue, with results anticipated to be known by the evening.
While some regions witnessed over 50% voter turnout at polling stations, overall projections suggest a final turnout of less than 35%. Reports indicate a gradual increase in polling activity throughout the day, with initial sluggishness giving way to heightened participation in the evening.
With a total of 3.5 million voters in the country, including 86,000 newly added to the voter list this year, the electoral system now enables all citizens residing on the island to vote on the same day, a reform implemented since 2022.
President Michael D. Higgins addressed the public at St. Mary’s Hospital in Phoenix Park, while Prime Minister Leo Varadkar spoke at Scoil Treasa Naofa in Dublin, signalling the significance of the referendum to the nation.
The notable turnout underscores the Irish people’s engagement in this crucial vote. However, concerns arise from the absence of appointed representatives at referendum booths and counting stations, disappointing some members of the opposition. While all major political parties except one support the government’s referendum, non-partisan entities like the Antu Party have a presence in marginal centres.
Polling surged across all constituencies, with Munster regions like Cork City and Limerick reporting a 50% turnout and areas like Clare, Shannon, Ennistymon, Kilrush, and Killaloe seeing a 40% turnout, with Ennis at 29%. Heavy polling continued overnight in Kerry, Waterford City, Tramore, Dungarvan, Tipperary, and throughout Dublin City, with notable high turnouts in Confay in Kildare South and Kilcock.
In the Donegal offshore islands of Toraigh (37%) and Gola (28%), polling concluded at 3 p.m., while parts of Cavan experienced significant turnout increases. Conversely, the Galway constituency reported the lowest turnout in Castlegarry (14%) and Kinvararay (22%).
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