Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 25 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 3

Written Answers. - Political Funding.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

50 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the reason he intends to repeal sections of the Electoral Act, 1997 regarding funding of political parties and the electoral system; if it is intended that these amendments will remove the cap on electoral spending set by the Act; his views on whether it is preferable to have the political system funded in an open and transparent manner rather than having political parties dependent on contributions from the business sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20188/97]

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

The provisions of the Electoral Act, 1997 relating to State funding for political parties, reimbursement of candidates election expenses and the limitation on election expenditure are currently being examined by me. I have, of course, already indicated that I continue to have reservations particularly on the provisions relating to State funding of political parties and the reimbursement of election expenses of candidates. I will bring any proposals to Government which may be necessary arising from this examination, including any proposals for legislation on the matter.