2002 Saint Helena referendum

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A referendum on building a new airfield or replacing RMS St Helena was held in Saint Helena between 21 January and 1 February 2002.[1] Around 72% voted in favour of the airport, although critics claimed that the referendum was slanted in favour of this option.[2]

Background[]

RMS St Helena was the island's only connection with the outside world, but required replacing at an estimated cost of £26 million. The cost of the alternative option of a new airport was estimated at £50 million. The island's Executive Council initially rejected holding a referendum, but agreed to do so on 8 January 2002.[1]

All Saint Helena citizens aged over 16 and based in Saint Helena, Ascension Island, the Falkland Islands and on board RMS St Helena were eligible to vote.[1] Voters were given the options:

  • I WOULD LIKE to have an airport on St Helena, with alternative arrangements being made for shipping.
  • I WOULD NOT LIKE to have an airport but would like to have a replacement RMS St Helena.

Results[]

Choice Votes %
Airport 1,577 71.58
New ship 626 28.42
Invalid/blank votes 13 –
Total 2,216 100
Registered voters/turnout 4,473 49.54
Source: Direct Democracy

References[]

  1. ^ a b c St. Helena, 1 February 2002: Airport or new ship Direct Democracy (in German)
  2. ^ Saint Helena: Mixed reactions over airport plans BBC News, 16 August 2002
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