NCJ Number
238069
Journal
Howard Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 51 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2012 Pages: 16-36
Date Published
February 2012
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article outlines the first experience of voting for Irish prisoners and sets out their views on voting, politics, politicians and civic engagement.
Abstract
In May 2007, Irish prisoners voted for the first time as a result of legislation which allowed them to cast their franchise. This article outlines the first experience of voting for Irish prisoners and sets out their views on voting, politics, politicians and civic engagement. Despite optimism that enfranchisement would encourage prisoners to vote, the low turnout suggests a population for whom special measures are needed if they are to embrace the franchise. As the Conservative-Liberal Democrat government considers its response to the Hirst judgment on the enfranchisement of prisoners, the experience of Ireland might help inform UK policymakers in their deliberations. (Published Abstract)