Porirua City to Trial Online Voting In Local Elections

An announcement today by Local Government Minister Chris Tremain that online voting could take place in the 2016 Local Authority elections is hugely welcomed by Porirua Mayor Nick Leggett.

“Our Council has been a driving force to make E-Voting a part of the democratic process and the Minister acknowledged this leadership at the recent Local Government Conference.

“It’s well known that voter turn-out is decreasing so it’s important we offer voting channels that reflect modern lifestyles, preferences and time pressures.”

Porirua is a young city with a high proportion of voters who relate to online communities.

“The ease, access and convenience of voting online not only benefits modern lifestyles but can also improve participation for overseas voters.

“Porirua City will trial the system in 2016 and Minister Chris Tremain will be keeping us posted on the next steps in the process.”

Mayor Leggett says the trial will allow new policies and processes to be tested and tuned in an environment of low operational financial and political risk.

“We would expect improved security and voter authentication compared to existing postal voting methods as well as efficiencies and financial savings in the long term.”

ENDS

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