Electronic voting to be introduced in 2004

Electronic voting is to be introduced nationwide in 2004.

The government is to bring in the new system following the success of electronic voting in Dublin and Meath during the general election and Nice referendum.

It will now be introduced in all 42 constituencies across the country in two years.

The introduction of the new system will cost the state €33m.

Some of this money will be recouped on the reduced number of counting staff needed across the country.