The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Eibhlin Byrne will launch the exhibition Local Elections in Ireland: 1898-2008  at Dublin City Library and Archive, 138-144 Pearse Street, Dublin 2, at 4.30 pm, on Thursday 12th March 2009.

Featuring original documents from Dublin City Library and Archives, the exhibition animates the history of local democracy and the impact that local elections have had in Ireland from 1898 to 2008. With momentum building towards the Local Elections in June 2009, it is a timely reminder to all citizens of  Dublin that the right to vote is an important entitlement. The right of migrant residents in Dublin to participate in local elections is given special emphasis in the exhibition.

The Lord Mayor, Eibhlin Byrne said, "It is vital for democracy that we all engage in the democratic process.  I believe that there is an obligation on every citizen to vote because we each share the responsibility for our communities.  Local government is an important influence on our city and this exhibition reflects that."

The exhibition was prepared by the Local Authority Archivists Group with funding from the Heritage Council. It will remain at Dublin City Library and Archives until 30th March. Admission is free, with booking required for groups of 10 or more.

For further information contact : Dublin City Archives, 138-144 Pearse street, Dublin 2 or cityarchives@dublincity.ie or telephone 01-6474997 / 6744848.