Mayo call for community centres to replace schools as polling stations

CONCERNS are being raised about the long-standing practice of using schools as polling stations with the Presidential Election fast approaching on October 24.

A community groups in Ardagh argues that closing schools on polling day is outdated and unnecessarily disruptive for families.

Parents are often left facing additional childcare costs or forced to take time off work while schools are shut.

Ardagh Community Centre has offered their facility as a polling station, highlighting its fibre broadband, ample parking, kitchen and toilet facilities, and full wheelchair accessibility.

The centre is also located close to several of the national schools currently used for voting.

“We’ve been proactive on this matter and have already expressed our interest to the relevant authorities regarding our facility on Election Day,” Dermot O'Boyle said.

He added that while changing polling venues may require planning, a pilot programme could be introduced to trial the approach.

Ardagh community centre has signalled its willingness to participate in such an initiative.

“We hope to help change the status quo in using schools for polling stations at election time,” the statement continued.

The group believes that applying “common sense” in selecting polling venues could reduce disruption while still ensuring facilities are fit for purpose.