Democracy a bit on the late side

I TURNED 18 in August and, to my dismay, found that I would not be eligible to vote until the composition of the new register in February, 2003. I was anxious to have my say in the Nice referendum.

I believe there are many others in a similar situation, which is why I question the organisation of the voting register. All those over 18 have the right to vote, so why must many of them have to wait for months before that right is granted? . A poll published recently by the Referendum Commission shows that only 28% of those aged 18 to 24 intend to vote on Nice. The Government needs to address this issue. They believe the ratification of the Nice Treaty depends on the votes of young people.

But how can they expect support from them when they do not give them the chance to exercise their vote?