Candidates to limit budgets in 60 days prior to vote

A SURGE in spending by local election candidates on booklets, leaflets and promotion material is expected in the coming weeks before new rules kick in limiting how much they spend on a campaign.

Under new rules announced yesterday, candidates for the June 5 local elections will have to limit their campaign spending to between €7,500 and €15,000 in a 60-day period running up to polling day.

Environment Minister John Gormley said the spending limits will create a more level playing field between council candidates.