Safety advice for Highlanders voting in Holyrood elections
Highlanders will go to the polls on Thursday, May 6.
Planning is already under way to ensure their safety as they choose their Scottish Parliament representatives.
There are a number of ways they can have their say, says electoral registration officer Bill Gillies:
"You can vote in a polling station, by post, or by appointing someone you trust to vote on your behalf, which is known as a proxy vote.
“The Scottish Parliament makes decisions that affect every aspect of our daily lives so it is important to make your voice heard in this election and have a say on who represents you.
“We’re thinking about these elections now so that, however you choose to cast your vote in May, you can do so safely.
"Arrangements are being put in place by the Returning Officer to help you stay safe at the polling station; you can expect many of the measures you’ve become used to in shops and banks over recent months, such as hand sanitiser, floor markings and face masks. But you also have the option to apply to vote by post or by proxy.”
Andy O’Neill, head of Scotland's Electoral Commission, said: “If you’re thinking about voting by post, you can apply now. This will make sure your application is processed early, and your postal vote can be sent to you more quickly.
"It’s easy to apply and you can find out how by visiting the Electoral Commission website.
“You need to be registered to vote in order to have a say at the election – the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
"And remember, it doesn’t matter where you were born, if you are aged 16 and over and are resident in Scotland you are now eligible to register and vote in Scottish Parliament elections.”
Residents can visit the FAQ page on the website here to find out more.
The page will be updated with new information as it becomes available. Any residents who have questions can also contact the electoral registration team on 0800 393 783 or by e-mail ero@highland.gov.uk
