Mental Health Commission reminds residents and patients of their right to vote in Presidential election
Mental Health Commission reminds residents and patients of their right to vote in Presidential election
Applications to be included on ‘Special Voters List’ must be received by Monday, 29 September
The MHC is reminding residents and patients of mental health centres across the country that they have the right to vote in the upcoming Presidential election, taking place on Thursday, 24 October 2025.
The MHC is also highlighting the special arrangements in place to support electors with an illness or disability, ensuring that they can exercise their democratic rights. These arrangements include special voting facilities in hospitals, nursing homes and similar institutions for residents who are unable to attend a polling station due to illness or disability.
“With the Presidential election taking place on 24 October, it is especially important to remind mental health service users that they are entitled to vote,” said John Farrelly, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Commission.
“People, particularly those who may not have voted while in a mental health centre before, may not realise that their rights remain unchanged and that they can cast their vote just as they would if they were living in the community.”
Under electoral legislation, a person residing in a hospital, nursing home, mental health facility or similar institution who cannot attend a polling station because of illness or disability can vote in their place of residence, provided they are included on the Special Voters List, which is maintained by local registration authorities.
To be entered on the Special Voters List, an application must be made to the local registration authority (county or city council). For a first-time application – or when requested for a subsequent application – a certificate from a registered medical practitioner (such as a GP) must be provided.
Applications for the upcoming Presidential election must be received by Monday, 29 September 2025, application forms are available at www.checktheregister.ie.
Head of Tribunals at the Mental Health Commission, Kevin Foley, said: “It is important that residents and patients move quickly now if they wish to vote, and it is our wish that they are given every assistance to do so by staff, family and friends. Their vote is as critical and valid as any other citizen of this country and it is important that their vote be counted and their voice heard.”
Further information is available in the Mental Health Commission’s ‘Your Right to Vote’ leaflet. General information for people with disabilities is also available in the Government’s booklet ‘Information for Voters with Disabilities’, which can be downloaded here: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/1b3dc-information-for-voters-with-disabilities/.
