Significant Barriers to Democratic Participation for People with Disabilities in Ireland
Despite Ireland’s stated commitment to equality and inclusion, many people with disabilities continue to face serious obstacles when it comes to participating fully in the democratic process. From administrative hurdles to physical inaccessibility, these barriers effectively disenfranchise a significant portion of the population.
One of the most pressing issues is the requirement for individuals with disabilities to obtain medical certification in order to access a postal vote. Currently, this involves getting a GP’s sign-off to confirm that the person is unable to attend a polling station—an appointment that is not covered by the medical card. As a result, disabled voters must pay out of pocket to vote by post, a cost not imposed on any other group of voters.
This requirement has been criticised by the Electoral Commission as an “unjustifiable barrier” to participation. Data from the Commission showed that after the 2024 local and European elections, 23% of voters with disabilities did not cast a ballot, citing their disability as a contributing factor. The Commission has called on the Government to eliminate this cost, emphasising that no one should face a financial barrier to vote.
In addition to administrative costs, physical access remains a major issue. Many polling stations, particularly those in older public buildings such as schools and community centres, are not fully accessible. Narrow doorways, lack of ramps, poor signage, and inadequate lighting can make it difficult or impossible for people with mobility issues, visual impairments, or other physical disabilities to cast their vote in person. While improvements have been made in recent years, progress has been inconsistent and often dependent on local resources.
These challenges are further compounded by tight deadlines for postal vote applications. In the case of general elections, applications close just two days after the dissolution of the Dáil—leaving little time for individuals with disabilities to gather documentation and secure GP appointments, even if they can afford them.
Art O’Leary, Chief Executive of the Electoral Commission, has urged the Government to act swiftly to remove the medical certification cost and review broader accessibility concerns ahead of the upcoming Presidential election. He highlighted that only one group of people—those with disabilities—are required to pay in order to vote, calling the practice inherently unfair.
The Department of Housing has confirmed that it is considering the Commission’s correspondence, but no formal changes have been announced.
Ireland is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which mandates equal participation in public and political life. Until all voters can access the ballot without undue cost or hardship—whether financial or physical—this principle remains unfulfilled.
Removing these barriers is not simply a matter of convenience; it is a matter of rights. Ensuring that every citizen, regardless of ability, can vote freely and fairly is a foundational element of any true democracy.
The Givernment must act to remove these barriers Today .