Over 45 secondary school student council members from across Drogheda gathered at Louth County Council’s Civic Offices this week for an inspiring workshop on voting and civic engagement, hosted in partnership with An Coimisiún Toghcháin (The Electoral Commission).
The event was designed to empower young people to understand the importance of registering to vote and participating in elections, giving them the tools to influence positive change in their communities and across Ireland.
Mayor of Drogheda, Cllr Michelle Hall, opened the workshop by sharing her own journey into politics:
“Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to influence change, and it’s never too early to start engaging with civic life. Student councils are more than just school committees—they’re a training ground for future leaders. Today, I was inspired by the energy and ideas these students brought to the table.”
The workshop included interactive sessions and a lively Q&A with Electoral Commission representatives, where students brainstormed creative ways to encourage their classmates to register to vote and explored barriers that often prevent young people from engaging with politics.
Sarah Keaveney, Education and Public Engagement with the Commission, said the feedback was invaluable:
“Since the last general election, nearly 60,000 young people across Ireland have turned 18, yet many may not be registered to vote in the upcoming Presidential Election. The students offered incredible insight into how we can encourage their peers to register and show up on polling day. Today’s workshop was the first of its kind, and we hope to replicate it nationwide.”
Susan Deery, Administrative Officer with Louth County Council, reminded young people that they don’t need to wait until they turn 18 to take action:
“You can register early to vote—even at 16 or 17—so that on your 18th birthday, you’re automatically added to the register. All you need is your PPS number and Eircode, and you can register in five minutes at checktheregister.ie.”
The deadline to register or update your details ahead of the Presidential Election is Tuesday, October 7th. For more visit www.checktheregister.ie.
