Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On section 55 and direct marketing for the purposes of Article 21, the reason for excluding direct mailing from direct marketing in these cases is that the enhanced right to object to direct marketing activity should not apply to direct mailing for these purposes. This exception is based on the idea that citizens not only have rights but also obligations to inform themselves as part of their civic responsibilities. During Seanad discussions on this Bill, Senator Norris referred in passing to his practice of sending information circulars on his parliamentary activities to the Trinity College electorate by direct mailing. This section is intended to contribute to the formation and maintenance of an informed electorate in the State as part of our democratic system of government. I was not minded to recall the incidents, as referred to by Deputy Clare Daly, but it is important that direct mailing be retained as part of the civic engagement.