Changes to NI voter registration

People with learning difficulties will be able to vote

New laws governing how people in Northern Ireland register to vote have come into effect.

The new legislation means people with learning disabilities can now vote.

Disabled people who cannot get to the polls will be given a proxy or postal vote, while a new system will be introduced to encourage young voters.

Northern Ireland's Chief Electoral Officer Douglas Bain said he hoped the changes would make it easier for everyone.