Public Encouraged to Vote Carlow – For Carlow’s Sake

Securing 2 TDs for Carlow will increase our influence at national level

County Carlow Chamber of Commerce launched their Vote Carlow Campaign – encouraging the public to use their vote to secure a second Dail seat for the county, in the upcoming General Election.

The Chamber is a member-based, apolitical organisation – not affiliated to any political party or individual. Their priority is championing county Carlow, and the businesses that they represent. They developed the Vote Carlow Campaign in response to a mandate from their members – 96% of those surveyed wanted to see a campaign to encourage voters to secure a second TD for the county.

‘The people of Carlow have a very real opportunity to shape the future of our county by securing a second TD for Carlow.’ Explains Michael Quinn, President of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce. ‘But this can only happen if we all support our local candidates. Carlow is growing, developing and improving. It is important that we keep this forward momentum going – so that it is a great place to live, work and do business. Securing a second Carlow-based TD would give us a stronger voice at national level and ensure that the needs of the people of Carlow are heard.’

Candidates

Currently there are 5 Carlow-based candidates and 13 Kilkenny-based candidates on the ballot paper. Over the coming weeks the public will have the opportunity to listen to their plans and policies – and most importantly to understand their commitment to supporting and improving county Carlow.

Transfers – and how the system works

In the past, Carlow has struggled to secure a second seat in the 5 seat Carlow / Kilkenny constituency – with 4 seats remaining in Kilkenny. The challenge has often been a lack of transfers.

In an election, transfers play a critical role. When your preferred candidate reaches the quota (and is elected) or is eliminated, your vote can be transferred to your next preferred candidate on your ballot paper (your number 2,3 etc.). By strategically using your preferences, you can help ensure that Carlow candidates receive the support they need to stay in the race and ultimately to secure a seat.

‘Every vote counts. It is not just about giving your number 1 preference to Carlow candidates; it is equally important to consider giving your 2nd, 3rd, 4^th or 5th preferences to Carlow candidates as well. By doing this you are securing the necessary transfers that can make all the difference in a tight race.’ Explains Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce.

The ask on polling day is that you give not only your number 1 vote for a Carlow candidate, but you also give your preferences to any of the Carlow candidates that you feel you can support – for Carlow’s sake.

The Chamber has also developed a manifesto – outlining the key issues that their members want to see addressed. This document has been presented to all the Carlow candidates in a bid to ensure that whoever wins the seats and represents our county at national level has a clear understanding of the issues facing businesses in the county, and the challenges to be overcome in order to ensure growth for Carlow. More information is available on www.carlowchamber.com

Voting Carlow is key – and the starting point is ensuring that you are registered to vote. To check if you are registered, and that your details are correct visit www.checktheregister.ie From here you can access all the information you need on registering or changing your contact details.

Please remember – every vote and every transfer counts. Vote Carlow – for Carlow’s sake.

Download Campaign Poster Here: