MLAs Hold Information Session On Reporting Donations

The Committee on Standards and Privileges has hosted an information session on reporting political donations.

The session, which was delivered by the Electoral Commission, included a presentation on the requirements of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 in terms of reporting donations by both individual politicians and parties. A question and answer session then followed which allowed MLAs to ask specific questions of the Electoral Commission which has responsibility for monitoring donations to politicians and political parties.

Speaking after the event the Chairperson of the Committee on Standards and Privileges, Alastair Ross MLA, said “In order to ensure integrity and public confidence in our political systems it is necessary to regulate donations and loans to political parties and their members. It is vital that MLAs understand and comply with these requirements. I therefore want to thank the Electoral Commission for the very useful advice they have given us.”

Séamus Magee, Head of the Electoral Commission’s office in Northern Ireland, said “I would like to thank the Committee for inviting the Commission to Parliament Buildings to outline the rules on donations and loans and how these apply to elected members. We strive to help the regulated community to comply with the rules by providing advice and guidance so that voters can be ensured there is integrity and transparency in the democratic process.”

ENDS.