The majority of voters in this year's European election did not recognise enough of the candidates to benefit from the inclusion of the candidates' photographs, which were included on the ballot papers for the first time.
A report prepared by Lansdowne Market Research concludes that while the use of photographs on ballot papers had the potential to influence voter choice, most people simply did not recognise the photographs.
The report, which has been seen by The Irish Times, indicates that only five candidates achieved a recognition level above 60 per cent.
The well-known faces were Mr Pat Cox (Independent), Mr Gerry Collins and Mr Brian Crowley of Fianna Fail, Ms Dana Rosemary Scallon (Independent) and Mr Proinsias De Rossa (Labour).
When asked before voting, 28 per cent indicated the photographs would have "some or a great deal of influence". However, after casting their vote some 34 per cent admitted the photographs had affected their decision.
Before the June vote only 52 per cent of respondents considered the use of photographs "fairly or very helpful". However, after seeing photographs on the ballot papers, those in favour increased to 61 per cent. Three-quarters of respondents were in favour of the use of photographs in future Dail and European elections.
The report, which was commissioned by the Minister for the Environment, Mr Dempsey, will be published later today.