Publication
Electoral Commission - An Coimisiún Toghcháin
From Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
Published on
Last updated on
The Programme for Government provides for the establishment of a statutory, independent electoral commission. The Electoral Reform Act 2022, which was enacted in July 2022, gives effect to this commitment, providing the legislative basis for the Electoral Commission – entitled An Coimisiún Toghcháin. It will be established in early 2023.
As a dedicated and specialised body, the An Coimisiún Toghcháin will bring about a more cohesive and efficient administration of existing electoral functions. These include:
An Coimisiún’s membership consists of seven members, comprising:
The ordinary members are selected via a public selection process run by the Public Appointments Service. They are appointed by the President on the Government’s recommendation, and subject to the passing of supporting resolutions for their appointment from both Houses of the Oireachtas. The Chairperson is also appointed by the President, following the nomination from the Chief Justice.
An Coimisiún Toghcháin will be led by a Chief Executive, appointed by the Government following a public, independent selection process run by PAS, will be responsible for implementing the policies and decisions of An Coimisiún Toghcháin, and managing its administration and business. The Chief Executive will not be a member of An Coimisiún’s Board, but may attend all meetings and will be entitled to speak and give advice at such meetings.