The 2002 general election was the first to be conducted with full financial disclosure by candidates. The confidence this provides for the electorate is an essential safeguard for our democracy and legislates for public affairs in Ireland being conducted in an open way. However, it is now clear that problems have arisen with the complexity of existing legislative provisions in this area. The commission report refers to a number of these complexities, with practical difficulties being experienced by candidates and political parties in attempting to comply conscientiously with the legislation's requirements. Against this background, I welcome the fact that the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has indicated his intention to review the present system in order to improve its transparency and simplicity. Broadly based consultation involving all political parties and colleagues on these matters is desirable. This is being initiated.