Ramsey Commissioners have adopted a new strategy drawn up by town clerk Peter Whiteway to make the most of time constraints and boost interest in local bye-elections.

It follows a resolution passed by the board last August that the subject be explored in depth.

In the summer there was turnout of just 16% in a local authority election.

Of 5,724 people registered to vote, only 928 exercised their democratic right.

Under current legislation, as soon as a local authority vacancy occurs, a bye-election must take place within 42 days, during which a series of statutory steps must be strictly followed.

Among the town clerk’s recommendations are:

Establishing an election timetable seeking to ensure that the maximum time available is used for the election process, having regard for public holidays and other events such as TT and Bank Holidays

Immediate issue of a media statement announcing the vacancy

Daily online media releases related to the statutory process and calling for nominations

Use of banner publicity at the town hall and on public notice boards notifying people of the vacancy and seeking nominations

Production of an information pack for candidates

Invitation to prospective candidates to meet the town clerk or deputy to discuss candidature and seek any specific information they require

Arranging a drop-in session for prospective candidates to meet existing board members

Media release regarding candidates as soon as nominations have closed

Additional publication of absent voters’ provision

Online publication of manifestos

Drop-in session for candidates to meet the electorate

Facilitation of interviews with local media

Hosting a requisition meeting for candidates to address voters and answer questions

Continuous online media updates encouraging electorate to use their vote

The report added: ’Beyond the above, there is an imperative upon candidates seeking election to garner the support of the electorate and to encourage voters to support them at the poll.

’Recognising that there is a time constraint for bye-elections, many people simply will not turn out to vote if they do not know or have not met the candidate or if they have not received a copy of the candidate’s manifesto.

’The traditional means of achieving this is by door to door canvassing throughout the constituency.

’It is clear that some politicians have in the past adopted successful election strategies and new candidates have sought guidance from retired or sitting politicians as to the running of election campaigns, or obtained such support by joining a political party which is able to support multiple candidates with advice and logistical assistance.’

Mr Whiteway was warmly praised for the report, which was adopted unanimously at the monthly meeting.