Dear Sir, – Regarding the European Parliament elections, the topic of the British living in Ireland has been left untouched. In the past, before Britain’s departure from the EU, the eligible adult population of the 100,000 Britons residing indefinitely in Ireland exercised their voting rights in the EU Parliamentary voting procedure of 2019. However, this is no longer the case, as we have been expunged from the electoral roll and now participate only to select our municipal representatives.
Our exclusion is unlikely to impact the results given the colossal dimensions of the European constituencies. Areas, such as Donegal and Cork, which consist of a significant British population (Skibbereen for example contains a British population accounting for 10% of the town’s populace), will witness a reduction in the number of votes cast. The probable confusion at polling booths caused by bemused British residents receiving only one voting slip, while their German counterparts receive two, could also potentially slow down proceedings.
It appears Brexit truly is the “present that persistently delivers”. – Yours,
KENNETH HARPER,
Burtonport,
County Donegal.