Surely arrangements can be made to permit these persons to cast their ballot

Jan 31, 2020 Letters

DEAR EDITOR,

I am advised that the category of electors entitled to vote by proxy in the upcoming General and Regional Elections is limited to those who are unable, or likely to be unable, to go to the polling station for any of the following reasons:
• duties of employment on Election Day either as a member of a Disciplined Force, a Rural Constable, or those connected with the elections as assigned by a Returning Officer;
• engaged in running a vessel for the Transport and Harbours Department on Election Day;
• a duly appointed candidate at the election, away from home on Election Day; and
• blind/visually impaired or physically incapacitated (stroke, amputated limbs, etc.) persons.
I am also aware that there is a growing category of persons employed in the rapidly expanding petroleum sector, whose contribution and service are no less essential than some of those referenced above, who would not be able to vote because of their four-week rotation offshore but within local jurisdiction.
Their numbers are not insignificant – there are currently, at least, four drillships and one FPSO in operation, as well as service vessels – and the designation of Election Day as a national holiday will not impact them and their location will not permit time-off or individual capability to commute to the polling station.
Surely arrangements can be made to permit these persons to cast their ballot.
Sincerely
Oscar Dolphin

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