Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 2

Written Answers. - Electoral Procedures.

Enda Kenny

Question:

243 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will have examinations made into the pilot experiment introduced in 1999 in the European elections of having photographs of the candidates on ballot papers; if he has further analysed the survey carried out by a company (details supplied) into this matter; if this report was commissioned by his Department; if so, if he will indicate the brief given for the drawing up of the report and the cost in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13295/00]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

Copies of the report entitled European Elections – Ballot Paper Development are available in the Oireachtas Library. The report was undertaken by Lansdowne Market Research and cost £18,150. The Government has recently given approval to the drafting of legislation to provide for the use of photographs and party logos on ballot papers at elections.