A chara, – Given the concern over the actions of a few councillors as reported in the RTÉ Investigates programme, and the reported inaction of many others in recording their interests, I believe a separate but related subject requires attention.
Corporate donations to parties may have a more insidious effect on behaviour and attitudes when voting on legislation that affects business. That there is no modern equivalent of the Galway tent does not mean that such contact does not exist, and although it is reasonable for a government to meet interested parties to inform itself, the various political parties might find it harder to justify such meetings when a financial contribution follows shortly after.
I would urge all political parties to follow the lead of the Green Party and ban corporate donations. The perception among some that these donations buy influence or contact to politicians affects confidence in our democratic system. There are many hardworking and honest candidates standing in the election and they should be supported by such a move.
Voters in the general election deserve to know their local candidates’ views on this issue and I would encourage you to ask your local candidates where they stand on it. (I intend to stand in the general election and would welcome such discussion). – Yours, etc,
Dr SÉAMUS McMENAMIN,
Navan, Co Meath.