Who Can Stand For Election?
Anyone aged 21 or over on the day nominations close can become a District Councillor provided that they are:
- British or Commonwealth citizens; OR
- Citizens of the Irish Republic or another state within the European Union; AND
- Included on the electoral register for the Council's area.
If you can satisfy the first two of the above but not the third , you must have either lived or owned property or worked within the District for the 12 months immediately before the election day.
Candidates do not need any previous experience. However, a general understanding of how a council works would be helpful but not essential.
You do not have to belong to a political party to stand for election. Many people have party connections, but many also stand as Independent Candidates.
Unlike the case of parliamentary elections, candidates do not have to pay a deposit before they can stand for election.
The only other qualifications needed, apart from living, owning property or working in the area, are common sense and a desire to serve the local community.
All newly elected Councillors are able to take part in an initial induction programme spread over their first few months in office. Further training will also be provided to meet any future needs individual Councillors may have.
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Subscribe to changes to this page here.Author: Eric Williams. Last Updated: 10/8/2006.
