26/03/03 - Report on involvement by individuals and groups in the referenda on abortion and the Nice Treaty and the Dáil general election

Comment

The referendum on abortion was the first significant relevant event to occur after the coming into operation of the provisions of section 23C of the 1997 Act. It is clear that, notwithstanding the newspaper advertising undertaken by the Standards Commission, and other publicity, there was a low level of awareness and understanding of the legal obligations attaching to third parties in relation to the referendum. With the exceptions of Alliance for a No Vote (A4) and SPUC (UK) (A16), all groups and individuals whose participation in the campaign came to the attention of the Standards Commission have, to date, taken steps to comply with the statutory requirements. In a number of cases, as outlined above, correspondence is continuing and will be brought to a conclusion as soon as possible.

The Standards Commission has made all reasonable efforts to ensure that individuals or groups who are covered by the legislation will discharge their legal responsibilities. It may be the case that individuals or groups, other than those who came to the attention of the Standards Commission, were involved in the referendum on abortion campaign and should have registered with the Standards Commission as third parties having received donations, in relation to the referendum, valued in excess of €126.97. The Standards Commission will consider the matter and take appropriate action if evidence to that effect becomes available.

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