An Irish youth organisation has called on Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to hold the general election over a weekend.
Youth Work Ireland said that, should an election be held on a Thursday, much of the younger population is unlikely to vote. According to spokesman Michael McLoughlin, previous surveys have shown practicalities, not apathy, prevent young people from getting to the polls.
"The CSO figures on non-voting have shown technical questions, like being able to get home and being on the register, as the most important factors for young voters," he said.
"These figures show young people to be far from apathetic but in need of assistance in getting to the polls."
Mr McLoughlin said Ireland should look to France, which achieved an 85 per cent turnout for the first round of presidential elections held last Sunday.
"The indications that voting may be on a Thursday are very disappointing. Coupled with a confused picture in relation to the electoral register, this election could represent a major blow to the efforts to increase youth voting." He claimed the low turnout of young voters was reflected in a lack of youth-related Government policies.
