50,000 immigrants urged to vote

MORE than 50,000 immigrant voters are being encouraged to register to vote for next year’s local and European elections.

A campaign has been launched to encourage Ireland’s newest residents to play their part on polling day. Over the coming months, campaigning will be carried out in trade unions, third level colleges and the workplace in a bid to get immigrants to vote.

Organised by the Africa Centre and New Community Partnership (NCP), the campaign was launched in Dublin yesterday. Co-ordinator Issah Huseini with the NCP, which represents over 78 ethnic minorities, said: “In June 2009, immigrant voters will show their political power and demonstrate to our elected officials and political leaders that they are politically engaged and prepared to fight for their rights and the dignity of their communities.”