More election polling stations wanted in Portlaoise

Portlaoise may get more election polling stations, by request of local councillors.

Laois County Council is to ask the County Register, Rory Hanniffy to open extra voting centres where they traditionally were in Portlaoise, in light of the growing population.

Sinn Féin Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley tabled a motion asking for Mr Hanniffy to ask St Francis School and Dunamase College to open polling stations in their schools. 

"Most of us are familiar with when St Paul's where St Francis is now was always a polling station, it's very handy for people up in St Brigid's. 

"We've put huge emphasis on people living in town, in Goldencroft and soon in the Convent, but people say it's too much hassle to get from the centre of town to Summerhill. We have to make it easy for people to exercise their democratic right to vote," she said.

In reply, Director of Services Paul McLoughlin said the council will make the request to the County Register for Portlaoise Muncipal District.