Reduction in voting age is welcome step says MLA

Reduction in voting age is welcome step says MLA

30 July 2025

SOUTH Down MLA Cathy Mason has welcomed news that the British government is to extend the right to vote to 16 and 17 year-olds.

The Sinn Fein politician said empowering young people with the vote encourages a lifetime of political engagement, describing the decision to lower the age of voting a “welcome step forward in strengthening democracy”.

Mrs Mason said with two elections scheduled in two years’ time, the focus now must be on ensuring 16 and 17 year olds can take part.

"It would be a disservice to democracy if this legislation is not in place by then and it would send entirely the wrong message to future voters,” she argued.

“Sinn Féin will be pressing the British government to ensure young people can vote in the 2027 Assembly and Council elections.”

Mrs Mason said her party has always advocated for an inclusive and progressive society where everyone has the right to shape the future and where the voices of young people are not only heard, but are listened to. 

“Our vision for a new and united Ireland is built on equality, justice and inclusivity,” she said.

“Allowing 16 and 17 year-olds to vote in the 2027 elections ensures that we give a voice to those who have the biggest stake in our future.”