Published on:
16
April 2012
Campaigning is well underway for the Clackmannanshire Council election on Thursday, 3rd May.
Elaine McPherson, Chief Executive and Returning Officer for the election took the opportunity this week to urge voters to make sure their choices count by using numbers on the ballot paper.
Mrs McPherson was joined at the council's headquarters at Greenfield House by a group of modern apprentices and first time voters, who were able to gain a better understanding of the voting system.
The young employees were: Kieran Stolarek, of Building Services, Lauren McQueenie, who works in Older Peoples' Care, Alyssa Jones, from Human Resources, Jason Ward, a member of the Elections Team, and Daniel Black, who works in Facilities Management.
This is the second time that voters across Scotland will be voting in local government elections using Single Transferable Vote (STV).
In these voters number the candidates on the ballot paper in order of their choice by marking a 1 next to their first choice, a 2 next to their second choice, a 3 next to their third choice and so on.
Voters can make as many or as few choices as they wish - they do not have to number every candidate. Voters may choose to give preferences to candidates from different parties; to the candidates from one political party; to independent candidates; or to a combination.
Mrs McPherson said: "Whether voting in person or by post, we would advise all voters to read the instructions on the ballot paper carefully before filling it in so they can be sure their choices count."
The independent Electoral Commission has sent a booklet with information on how to vote to every household in Scotland.
Andy O'Neill, Head of the Scotland Office at the Electoral Commission said: "As you get ready to decide which candidates will receive your support, please do also make sure that you have read the voter information booklet we sent so that you can vote confidently.
"If you have not received your booklet then download it now at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or call 0800 3 280 280 to order a copy"