Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Wallace mentioned Article 21. A strict reading of the right to object indicates that it is subject to compelling and legitimate grounds for the processing which override the interests, rights and freedoms of the data subject or for the establishment, exercise or defence of legal claims. I believe that the effective operation of our democratic system depends on the right of those seeking or in elected political office to communicate their programmes, manifestos, policies, platforms, decisions and, often, achievements to the electorate. There is a corresponding obligation that voters be informed in order to promote the discharge of civic duties in society. That is the same argument as made previously. The section as drafted is not unimportant.