Libertas to be newest political party

Libertas is set to become Ireland’s newest political party in coming days - just in time for the European Parliament elections.

The Register of Political Parties is expected to confirm the registration of the controversial think-tank later this week.

Libertas, which has already erected billboard posters for several of its European candidates around the country, will take its place on the official list alongside Dail parties such as Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Labour.

Registration means the Libertas name will appear on all ballot papers for the first time and it will also be subject to strict election spending rules.

The grouping, led by businessman Declan Ganley, applied to the Office of the Register of Political Parties earlier this month and a 21-day period was then allowed for any objections to the application.

The European Election campaign cannot begin until Environment Minister John Gormley signs the ministerial order for polling day on June 5.

However for the customary five-week campaign Mr Gormley would have to act later this week.

A spokesman for Libertas said: “A formal announcement of the grouping’s registration as a political party could be be made as early as tomorrow.”

However officials in the Office of the Register of Political Parties in Leinster House expect a decision later this week.

Libertas helped mastermind the defeat of the Lisbon Treaty last year which plunged European Union reform into chaos. Many political parties criticised the lack of transparency of the group and how it was funded.

A total of 18 political parties are already listed on the Irish register, including the Progressive Democrats which has not been officially wound up yet.

Under the Electoral Act (1992-2001), Libertas had to satisfy watchdogs that it was organised to fight elections and had more than 300 members.

It must also have a constitution or a set of rules that have been adopted by members.

Meanwhile, the European Affairs Committee will tomorrow discuss the role of groups such as Libertas and Coir in the Lisbon Treaty referendum campaign.

A report by the Standards in Public Office Commission (Sipo) being discussed recommends that changes be made to legislation requiring private groups to disclose expenditure.