Charities forced to reveal donation details

CAMPAIGN groups and charities who protest against Government policies have accused the State of intimidation after they were told they would have to reveal details of donations they receive.

More than 80 groups, including Amnesty International, the Carers’ Association, Focus Ireland, the Peace and Neutrality Alliance and Residents Against Racism, have been contacted by the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) and told they must register with the commission and furnish details of any donation for “political purposes” that exceeds €126.97.

Under Section 23C of the Electoral Act, which became law in 2002, the definition of ‘political purposes’ includes any campaign for “a particular outcome in relation to a policy or policies of the Government or any public authority”.