Even though the proportional representation (PR) system of voting used in Ireland can be intricate, it remains straightforward for the electorate. Established since the nation’s inception, the system is an integral part of the democratic fabric. The system takes the form of the single transferable vote (STV), commonly utilised in multi-seat constituencies during national polling. It is applied in local councils’ electoral regions, which typically comprise six to seven seats.
Moreover, the system is employed in the European elections in Ireland, with Dublin having four seats, whereas Ireland South and Midlands North-West each possess five seats. The same system is also applicable in presidential polls.
Countries such as Malta, along with Northern Ireland for local and assembly polls, also implement the same voting system. However, attempt to adopt the British first-past-the-post system via two referendums was firmly quashed.
Upon entering the polling station, voters see a list containing all the candidates on the ballot paper they receive. The number of candidates can vary, with local elections typically featuring eight to 12 candidates. However, a staggering 27 candidates in the Midlands North-West region’s European elections was a record.
However, the counting process can be quite complex due to the escalated number of candidates in European constituencies. Voters rank the candidates based on preference, with the most preferred candidate marked as number one. If a voter selects only one candidate, that is their single choice and thus, no transfers.
Less preferred candidates only become significant when more preferred ones are elected or discarded. Most voters tend to choose between three to seven candidates.
Calculating the quota, which is dependent upon the number of seats, is another complexity of the count. Take, for example, when an electoral area has seven seats – a candidate would need to acquire one-seventh of the valid votes plus one additional vote to be elected. A quota of a quarter of total valid votes plus one is required in a four-seat scenario.
When a candidate is either chosen or disqualified after each tally, votes are then reallocated. Transfers can allow a vote to be counted numerous times. If a voter just selects one candidate, their vote will not be transferable as they’ve mentioned no second choice. By continuously ranking their preferences from the pool of candidates, a voter can have a sway on the appointment of alternative contenders.
Even if a vote marked as a recipient’s 10th choice, it will be considered a full vote when transferred, hence the term ‘single transferable vote’. If a candidate achieves the quota by the end of a tally, their excess or surplus votes are reallocated to other candidates. However, if they have the minimal vote count at the end of a tally, they would be expelled from the election. As long as they continue getting enough transfers to sustain competition, candidates stay a part of the tally.
This procedure persists until no more votes are up for transfer.