RedC Poll for Youth Council shows 77% back Saturday vote

National Youth Council of IrelandComhairle Náisiúnta na nÓgA RedC Poll commissioned by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) shows more than three-quarters of the electorate are in favour of all elections and referenda being held on a Saturday.• 56% agree strongly that all elections/referenda should be held on a Saturday• 21% agree• 14% disagree• 7% strongly disagree• 2% don't know• 86% of those aged 55-64 agree strongly or agree• Support highest in Munster: 82% agree strongly or agree"As an organisation that has been campaigning for weekend voting since 1999, we welcome the overwhelming support for Saturday voting indicated in this poll," said James Doorley, NYCI deputy director."NYCI has consistently highlighted the fact that a weekend date will make it easier for young people in education, training or work away from home to participate. However, what is interesting about the figures here is that they show very high levels of support for Saturday voting across all age demographics - and particularly among those aged 55 to 64, where support is at 86%," continued Mr Doorley."Weekend voting is the norm in the majority of European counties, with Ireland and the UK being among the few that hold weekday polls. NYCI is hopeful that this will change, and that all future elections and referenda will be held on a weekend," concluded Mr Doorley.Commenting on the upcoming Children's Referendum to be held on Saturday November 10th, Mr Doorley said:"Despite initial positive opinion polls indicating a majority of the electorate will vote Yes, NYCI will continue to campaign for a Yes vote and work to encourage a high voter turnout, especially among young people."As part of its campaign to increase voter turn-out, especially among younger voters the NYCI launched a web app with information on reasons to vote Yes and reminders about the referendum date. The app is available to download on www.nyci.ieNYCI is part of Yes for Children, a national campaign led by Barnardos, the Children's Rights Alliance, the ISPCC and Campaign for Children.