Time to extend presidential voting rights to Irish citizens in north – Kearney
2 May 2025
Sinn Féin will move a motion in the Assembly on Tuesday calling for the Irish government to extend the right to vote in Irish presidential elections to all Irish citizens on the island of Ireland.
In 2013, the Constitutional Convention recommended extending voting rights to Irish citizens outside the state.
In 2015, Sinn Féin brought legislation to the Dáil to have this enacted, something that we intend to do again in this Dáil term.
Sinn Féin’s National Chairperson, Declan Kearney MLA, said it would be an opportunity for the Assembly to have its voice heard on the issue.
“Despite commitments made by successive governments and widespread political support, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have repeatedly delayed action,” said Mr Kearney.
“As Irish citizens in the north we can stand for, and be elected as Uachtarán na hÉireann. Therefore we should be able to vote for Uachtarán na hÉireann.
“This debate will enable the Assembly to have its say on this issue and support the rights of Irish citizens here.
“It is time to extend voting rights in elections for President of Ireland to all Irish citizens on the island of Ireland.”
