Sir, – The vast majority of emigrants leave Ireland’s shores because they see a better future for themselves abroad, or so that, at least, they can avail of opportunities to be gainfully employed and hopefully return when the economy improves.
These emigrants are Irish citizens; they were born and raised here and leave families and communities behind.
All have paid taxes and have contributed to Irish society in the years before their departure.
The vast majority of countries facilitate voting for emigrants in their home country, usually in both presidential and general elections.
This right to vote is usually limited to five or 10 years or, as in the case of the UK, for a period of 15 years.
Nearly all developed nations have systems in place to allow their emigrants to vote. And the number is growing. Even countries with very high rates of emigration, such as Italy, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, have recently allowed their expats to vote.
Is there still a wee bit of the mindset out there that emigrants cannot be given the vote because they “cannot be trusted”? – Yours, etc,
LIAM Ó CUINNEAGÁIN,
Gleann Cholm Cille,
Co Dhún na nGall.