asked the Minister for Justice what regulations, if any, exist in regard to the control and supervision of organisations which raise money stated to be for charitable purposes; whether an organisation (name supplied) is subject to such regulations; and if he will state its purpose.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fund-Raising Organisations.
43.
There is no legislative control or supervision over fund-raising for charity. There are certain statutory controls over lotteries and street-collections but they apply irrespective of whether the object is charitable or not.
I am, therefore, not in a position to make any statement as to the purpose or object of the organisation referred to.
Is the Minister aware that the National Cancer Research and Relief Fund is an obvious racket and police tolerance of its existence is not alone inexcusable but is a grave embarrassment and handicap to the reputable and honourable organisations who are doing such excellent work in the field of voluntary fund-raising? In the light of that, does the Minister not think that action is essential and that we should have removed from this country by whatever means we can people who are battening on unfortunate cancer sufferers and those who sympathise with them? This is an established fact and it has been publicised widely in the newspapers. Is the Minister content to leave the matter in the terms of his reply to me because if he is I shall have to go further and raise the matter on the Adjournment?
What I have said is that there is no legislative control or supervision on fund-raising for charity. Legislation in this field might be desirable but I am pointing out to the Deputy that the legislation is not there. As to the grave allegation that the Deputy has made I can only say to the Deputy that I shall have the matter investigated.