The Representation of the People (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2025
Introduction
The Representation of the People (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 were laid before Parliament on 24th January 2025. The Regulations will amend the Representation of the People (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2001 (the 2001 Regulations).
Key Changes
The key changes introduced by the Regulations are as follows:
- Introduction of a new registration system. The current system of annual canvass will be replaced with a new individual electoral registration (IER) system. Under IER, electors will be required to register individually to vote.
- Extension of the period of registration. The period of registration will be extended from 60 days to 120 days before an election.
- Introduction of a rolling register. The electoral register will be updated on a rolling basis, rather than being produced annually.
- Removal of the requirement to sign the declaration of identity. The declaration of identity, which is currently required to be signed by electors when they register to vote, will be removed.
- Introduction of a new penalty for failing to register. A new penalty of £100 will be introduced for electors who fail to register to vote.
Rationale for the Changes
The Government has stated that the changes are necessary to modernize the electoral registration system in Northern Ireland and to bring it into line with the rest of the UK. The Government also believes that the changes will make it easier for people to register to vote and will increase the accuracy of the electoral register.
Consultation
The Government consulted on the proposed changes in 2023. The consultation received over 1,000 responses, the majority of which were in support of the changes.
Next Steps
The Regulations are expected to come into force on 1st April 2025. The Electoral Commission will be responsible for implementing the changes.
Conclusion
The Representation of the People (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 will introduce a number of significant changes to the electoral registration system in Northern Ireland. The changes are intended to modernize the system and to make it easier for people to register to vote.
The Representation of the People (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2025
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