There have been appeals to relocate the vote counting process for the Tralee Municipal District from the John Mitchel’s GAA Complex in Ballymacelligott to the town centre, aiming to enhance public access.
In recent years, the John Mitchel’s GAA Complex has served as the venue for election counts for the municipal district, which previously held these events at the Brandon Conference Centre in Tralee.
However, Fine Gael Councillor Angie Baily brought up the issue during a recent MD meeting, stating that relocating the counting center back to the town center would increase participation in the electoral process, and would be more convenient for those who find it difficult to travel by car to the John Mitchel’s Complex.
She mentioned that this action would also attract younger individuals to participate and get involved in political discussions.
Cllr Baily, who made his debut with Fine Gael in the 2024 local elections, expressed concerns about the insufficient food services and seating at the John Mitchel’s Complex.
Many older individuals participate in the events, and it can be uncomfortable for them if they are unable to remain standing for extended periods. Back when the event took place at the Brandon hotel, attendees could enjoy a meal or some drinks, as the day could be lengthy. This approach helps promote local businesses, she mentioned.
Cllr Baily mentioned that comfort is ‘very significant’ given that tallying the votes is a procedure that may last several days.
“The [count] previous sites were truly amazing, allowing people to easily move in and out of town. Parking was also not a problem. I believe we could improve the location, which would also attract more young people and make our older residents feel more at ease,” Cllr Baily stated.
Backing the concept of moving locations, Sinn Féin Councillor Deirdre Ferris mentioned that after 26 years engaged in election campaigns, the environment inside the counting station in Brandon was improved due to being more local.
“Individuals could come and go throughout the day, and there was parking available, which isn’t the case when we visit the main town centre in Killarney. It’s not truly accessible…there is a certain aspect of the town centre that attracts attention. The count itself is one of the most thrilling parts of the day. It should be more inviting,” Cllr Ferris stated.
Kerry County Council (KCC) mentioned ahead of the 2029 local elections that it will assess the best place to conduct and manage the election count, factoring in the concerns highlighted.
KCC also mentioned that it does not have responsibility for managing Dáil elections, European Parliament elections, Presidential elections, and referendums at the local level. These tasks are carried out by the Kerry Returning Officer.
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