UNISON Ulearn Northern Ireland

Elections take place on Wednesday March 7th for the Northern Ireland Assembly. UNISON invited all of the political parties in to talk about their policies and attititudes to privatisation, school meals, protecting worker’s rights, water rates, enforcing human rights legislation effectively, tackling poverty and saving public sector jobs. UNISON wants an end to unaccountable direct rule ministers, UNISON wants the parties to take their place in Stormont and get on with running services for the people.

Representatives from Alliance, Green Party, UUP, PUP, SDLP, Worker’s Party and Sinn Fein all attended and set their stalls quizzed by members from health, education and community/voluntary sector branches. Photos are available here

Why You Should Vote?
Yes, we know people are fed up, don’t think that one vote can make any difference, don’t believe there’s anyone worth voting for. Not voting ensures that things don’t change, because those who do vote will end up speaking for you. If you want to protest against politicians, your lack of choice or the fact that you are fed up - then vote tactically - let them know on the ballot paper, not shouting from outside.

Those who get into government will make decisions which will affect your life - if you will pay and how much you will pay for water rates
- future of the 11 plus
- how many or how few new Council’s there will be
- where Health Services will be sited
- free personal care for older people or not
- revision of rural planning legislation

The right to vote used to be a privilege, it’s now a right - your right and your responsibility.

What Do I Need To Vote?
You will require photo ID. There will only accept
- A current Northern Ireland or Great Britain full driving licence or a Northern Ireland Provisional licence, all of which must bear the photograph of the holder ;
- A current passport issued by the United Kingdom or any other Member State of the European Community;
- A current Senior SmartPass issued under the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme;
- A current Electoral Identity Card.

You don’t need a polling card, as long as you returned your form and are on the electoral role.
Election polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm.

The Election Office has a Frequently Asked Questions section on their website