Candidate returns €500 donation to developer

A LABOUR election candidate has returned an unsolicited €500 donation from a property development company and queried whether the firm believes it can buy influence.

Cllr Eric Byrne, who is running in Dublin South Central, posted a photograph of the cheque and the accompanying letter from Durkan Homes on his personal website.

The letter, dated May 18, simply states: “Dear Eric, with reference to the upcoming general election, please find enclosed a donation towards your election fund. We wish you all the best next Thursday!”