Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am surprised that members see this section as new or novel. The Data Protection Act 1988 contains reference to direct marketing and direct mail. Much of this is subjective on the part of the recipient. All Members have seen signs stating "no junk mail" in the course of canvassing. Such a sign is an objection in itself. However, I recall more than one occasion on which I did not leave a leaflet but was subsequently contacted by or spoke to the householder and pointed out that I had honoured the sign declining junk mail only to be told that it did not apply to me but, rather, the other crowd. This is merely subjective.