Significant Barriers to Democratic Participation for People with Disabilities and Carers in Ireland

Ireland continues to fall short of ensuring equal participation in the democratic process for people with disabilities (PWD) and their carers. Despite legislative commitments and international obligations, numerous systemic and practical barriers persist—making it unnecessarily difficult for these citizens to cast their vote or stand as candidates in elections.

One of the most glaring issues is the requirement for PWD to obtain a medical certificate in order to apply for a postal vote. This certification must be signed by a GP and is not covered by the medical card, unlike other disability-related services. As a result, individuals are effectively charged a fee for the right to vote. Data from the Electoral Commission following the June 2024 elections revealed that 23% of voters with disabilities did not vote, citing their disability as a barrier. The Commission has described this cost as an “unjustifiable barrier” and has urged the Government to waive it before the upcoming presidential election.

However, financial costs are just one layer of the problem. Many polling stations remain physically inaccessible, particularly older buildings that lack ramps, wide doorways, or proper signage. These structural obstacles prevent voters with mobility impairments from entering or navigating polling venues safely and independently.

Communication barriers also play a significant role. There is a widespread lack of accessible literature, sign language interpretation, and real-time support for those with visual or hearing impairments. Voters often struggle to access information about the political process, party platforms, or how to register and vote—particularly those who rely on alternative formats.

Representation remains alarmingly low. There is a lack of political voice for PWD and carers, both in terms of candidates with lived experience and meaningful consultation during policy development. The absence of accessible civic education further compounds this exclusion, leaving many members of the disability community underinformed or disengaged from the political system.

The lack of Personal Assistant (PA) support on polling days makes it even harder for people with complex needs or carers managing full-time responsibilities to get to the ballot box. This is especially troubling in the context of Ireland’s recent referendum on care, where, ironically, carers themselves faced hurdles in voting on the very issue that affects them most directly.

As one campaigner starkly put it: “Only in Ireland could this happen—we have a referendum on care and multiple barriers are placed to prevent carers voting in it.”

The Electoral Commission must investigate why so many barriers remain. The Government must act to ensure that voting is fully accessible to all—regardless of ability or caregiving responsibilities.

A democracy that excludes is not a true democracy. Every citizen should have the right to vote and participate equally. It’s time Ireland stopped leaving people with disabilities and their carers