The members of Citizens’ Assemblies are selected using a detailed random multi-level recruitment approach. This is done in accordance with the most recent Census data to ensure that sample points are nationally representative in terms of region, gender, and age distribution.

Eligibility for membership of Assemblies follows the model introduced for the 2022 Citizens’ Assemblies, which featured important changes to eligibility criteria and to the recruitment methodology, informed by learnings from previous Citizens’ Assemblies and by international best practice.

Any adult who is resident in the State was eligible to become a member of the Citizens’ Assemblies. This included people who are not Irish citizens and others who are not enrolled on the electoral register. This has helped ensure that the membership is as broadly representative of Irish society as possible.

In line with best international practice, recruitment will be done by a postal campaign with 20,000 randomly-selected households invited by letter to apply to participate in the Assembly. From those who respond indicating a willingness to take part, members will be selected on the basis of gender, age, geography, and a number of other factors to ensure that they are broadly representative of wider society.

The Citizens’ Assembly for 2023 includes an independent Chairperson and 99 members of the general public selected using a stratified random selection process based on the GeoDirectory of households across the country. Following the approach of previous Assemblies, every effort will be made to ensure equality of voice among the membership.

See our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page for more information.