All you need to know about the upcoming elections

Two elections will take place this June

There are two electoral events due to take place on June 7th this year - the local elections and the European elections.

What is the local election?

The June 7th local elections will determine what candidate leads our communities.

The local election takes place every five years in Ireland. Those eligible to vote can elect councillors to represent them in their local authorities.

Those elected will be responsible for certain public services. Ahead of the elections, politicians have been canvassing in their areas and listening to locals' concerns, as well as issues they want to see improved.

The main issue locals are worried about is the housing crisis. Immigration is another key issue voters have spoken to candidates about.

It's important to note that the results of the local elections will serve as an indicator of public opinion ahead of the next General Election.

949 councillors will be elected following the vote on June 7th.

What is the European election?

The European election will also take place on June 7th.

This vote will give the Irish public a chance to have their say on the European Union's policies.

The members of the European Parliament will vote on legislation that impacts the entire nation.

There are 720 seats in the upcoming European Election and Ireland will have a total number of 14 seats to fill in this election.

The breakdown of the Irish seats is as follows:

• Dublin (four seats)
• Midlands–North-West (five seats)
• South (five seats)

When does the vote take place?

Those registered to vote can head to their local polling station on Friday, June 7th.

The polling stations will open from 7 am to 10 pm on June 7th.

However, you can only vote if you're registered by Monday, May 20th.

If you're unsure then you can check if you're registered to vote on checktheregister.ie.

To vote, you must be:

• Over 18 years of age
• Live in the local electoral area
• Be on the electoral register

When will the results be released?

Votes for both the local and European elections will be counted on June 8th, but it will likely take some time before the results are finalised.

It could take days for the final results to be confirmed, but the first seats will likely be announced

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