MEP taken to task over illiterate 'slur'
7 May 1997
A top MEP has been lashed for casting a slur on Ireland's illiterate people. Literacy campaigner Ernie Sweeney has hit out at Connaught-Ulster MEP Mark Killilea for his suggestion that the inclusion of photographs on ballot papers was a "prank". Mr. Sweeney said Mr. Killilea did not seem to understand what he was promoting.
"We are seeking to have the photographs on the ballot papers as an extra visual aid for those who have reading and writing problems.
"According to the Constitution sections 12, 18 and 22, states that all individuals are entitled to a secret ballot.
"The inclusion of the photographs would guarantee illiterates and many other groups that right.
"I challenge Mr. Killilea to leave his photograph off the next European Election Ballot paper and we will see how popular he really is.
"Mr. Killilea has greatly insulted all those who, through no fault of their own, have difficulties in marking their choice of candidate on ballot papers.
"This is often one of the main reasons why illiterates will not turn out to vote because of the fear of being stigmatised as an illiterate.
"A person of Mr. Killilea's standing should have a greater understanding of the problems these illiterates face.
Mr. Sweeney said there were up to 400,000 alone in Ireland who could be classed as illiterates. Foreign residents, fist time voters and the elderly are other groups who would benefit from the inclusion of the pictures on ballot papers.
Mr. Sweeney asked: "Mr. Killilea should speak of he knows and leave aside what he did not know."
He added that he considering allowing his name go forward for the next European Election on a human rights ticket.
