Election observers call for better access for disabled voters

A team of election observers say the election 'met international standards' but want better access for disabled voters.

An independent team of election observers have found that the Isle of Man's general election "broadly met international standards", but have put forward several recommendations.

A group from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was invited to observe the island's election process last week.

They visited 44 out of the 56 polling stations last week and observed the count in four consistencies.

They said that while voting across the island took place in a calm and orderly manner, about half of the polling stations were not accessible to voters with mobility issues "because of a lack of an adequate step-free access". 

The Head of Mission, Stewart Dickson MLA from Northern Ireland, said: "Following extensive and inclusive electoral reform, the Isle of Man has delivered a well-administered and competitive election.

"Despite efforts made, further improvements are still needed in terms of polling station accessibility and the consistency of the administration of the election".