Proxy voting to be considered for islanders

People could be allowed to vote by proxy in Sark's next general election if an upcoming proposal goes ahead.

The island's Chief Pleas will be asked to consider the idea put forward by the Policy and Finance Committee at its Michaelmas Meeting on 30 September.

If given the green light, those unable to attend the polling station in person because of illness, injury, disability or unavoidable absence, would be able to appoint someone else to cast a vote on their behalf.

The committee said its proposal had been developed with the island's returning officer with the hope it could be introduced in time for the election on 25 November.

The proposal contains a number of safeguards, including limits on who may act as a proxy and offences relating to misuse of the process, the committee added.

Conseiller Carol Cragoe said the right to vote should "not depend on a person being physically able to attend one place, on one day, within a limited period of time".

She said: "The introduction of proxy voting will provide a practical and proportionate solution while retaining appropriate safeguards.

"This is a positive step in the evolution of Sark's democratic system that will enhance accessibility and participation while reducing barriers to voting."

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