Reform must not invite corruption

Even though there is legislation capping expenditure on national elections, there is no limit on the amount that candidates may spend on local elections.

An academic study of the 1999 local elections concluded that there was a distinct correlation between spending and electoral success.

This was apparent even at the relatively miniscule spending levels, because the electoral areas are so small, with a tiny electorate and an even smaller turnout.

Environment Minister Martin Cullen has been flying political kites in relation to his current review of the Electoral Act dealing with national politics, but he has had very little to say about the local elections. Of course, this is area where Fianna Fáil would seem to have most to gain from the status quo, as the party has traditionally been able to raise most money.

This should give Fianna Fáil a distinct advantage in the local elections, but that does not justify the minister’s inaction. He has a duty to recognise the difference between politics and government.

Much of the political corruption that we have been hearing about in recent years relates to local, rather than national politics. The current system must be reformed, but it is an invitation to corruption.