Ulster Conservative and Unionist Candidate, Councillor Ross Hussey is encouraging all those who may not be able to attend their designated polling station to ensure that they have either a postal vote or a proxy vote.

 

The UCUNF candidate, who will have to compete with the DUP candidate at the Westminster poll, has emphasised the importance of everyone ensuring that the get the vote they are entitled. Speaking earlier this week Councillor Hussey said, “We have been working very hard over the past number of weeks to ensure that all those who may need a postal or proxy vote get one, and although we have helped a huge number of people so far it is very important that people are clear as to what they have to do.

 

“Anyone who can not attend their polling station, for whatever valid reason, is entitled to be considered as an absent voter. The electoral office has a set of forms for these people depending on their individual circumstances.”

 

Explaining the difference in the absent voters lists Mr Hussey said, “The two most common forms of absent voters are Postal votes and Proxy votes. Anyone who is housebound, due to a disability, medical condition or is receiving DLA can use a postal vote. Similarly those who care for someone can also apply for a postal vote. 

 

“Proxy votes are used to allow someone else to vote in your place. This is most commonly used by students who are at university, business people who are overseas. A proxy vote form is filled and the absent voter nominates someone to vote in their place.

 

“In total there are 8 different categories of absent voter and each category has a different form. As a result some people may become confused when it comes to what form to use. We want to ensure that all those people who are entitled to vote get to use their vote.

 

“As always, anyone who needs help or assistance is more than welcome to contact the Ulster Unionist Office on 028 82 245 568 and we will do our best to assist.”