Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Murphy's amendments provide that for a Dáil election a candidate who is not a candidate of a political party, as registered, shall be entitled to use the word "Independent" rather than "non-party". The amendments reflect Deputy Murphy's Electoral (Amendment) Bill published on 1 April 2014.

The relevant provisions of the 1992 Act set out that the expression "non-party" may be used where a candidate is not a candidate of a registered political party. This is based on the premise that the expression "non-party" on the ballot paper indicates adequately that a person does not belong to a political party. This description shows briefly, clearly and in a neutral way that the person does not belong to a registered party. It is a simple statement of fact and, as such, we believe it is appropriate for inclusion on the nomination and ballot papers. On the other hand, the description "Independent" could be viewed as a value-laden term and could have different meanings for different people. Indeed, it may not be acceptable to many non-party candidates. I note with interest the number of labels or identities being used by potential non-party candidates, including, for example, The People's Convention, Independents for Equality, Tús Nua, Kildare Action for Change and Independents Together.

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