Assembly backs extending Presidential voting rights to Irish citizens in north – Kearney
6 May 2025
Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney has welcomed the support of the Assembly for the extension of Presidential voting rights to Irish citizens in the north of Ireland.
The party’s National Chairperson said:
“This is a powerful and united message from our Assembly, transcending political differences and affirming the principles of parity of esteem, mutual respect, and equality enshrined in the Good Friday Agreement.
“Almost twelve years have passed since 2013 when the Constitutional Convention in Dublin voted overwhelmingly, in support of extending the franchise to Irish citizens living in the north and also abroad.
“The Irish Government has a clear constitutional duty under Article 2 to uphold the citizenship rights of all those born on the island of Ireland.
“Today’s motion reaffirms that duty and calls on the government to stop the delay, set a date, and act on this long-overdue promise.
“This is about equality, recognition, and democratic participation.
“The office of the President of Ireland is held in high regard and respect throughout the world.
“Our citizens must have a say in the future of the Irish Presidency, and today the Assembly has taken a principled stand in support of that right. The time for action is now.”
