Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 38: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans following the recent European elections, local elections and bye-elections, to review the operation and effectiveness of the recent legislation to control election expenditure by candidates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25071/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Following enactment of the Electoral (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 2009 in March 2009, a new system of spending limits for all candidates and political parties contesting local elections became effective for the local elections held on 5 June 2009.

For candidates contesting an election to the 34 county and city councils, there was a sliding scale with four separate spending limits, based on the population within each individual electoral area. A top limit of €15,000 applied in the most populated areas, with limits of €13,000, €11,500 and €9,750 applying in less populated areas. A spending limit of €7,500 applied in relation to elections to a borough or town council.

The 2009 Act provides that the spending period is set by a separate ministerial order for a period between 50 and 60 days before polling day. The spending period for the local elections held on 5 June 2009 commenced on 7 April, 2009 (a period of 60 days).

Spending for electoral purposes incurred from 7 April to 5 June 2009 (inclusive) must be included on the statement of election expenses submitted to the relevant local authority by candidates, national agents, designated persons of political parties and third parties. This form, which includes a signed statutory declaration, must be submitted within 90 days of polling day. The deadline for submission of these statements in respect of the recent local elections accordingly, is 3 September 2009.

This is the first time that spending limits have been in place for local elections. If practical issues emerge with implementation of the new system, then I will, of course, consider them to determine any action that may be required.