Proportional representation and the Irish Free State

Abstract

In English-speaking-countries the system of P.R. uniformly adopted is that of the Single Transferable Vote, while on the Continent of Europe list systems are used. I do not feel that I am called upon tonight to examine the various list systems which are at present in operation and to compare them in detail with the Single Transferable Vote system. It will probably be sufficient to state that, broadly speaking, under a list system transfers of votes often proceed in an order determined by the party caucus, while under the S.T.V. system transfers must be made in accordance with the expressed wishes of the voters.