FF candidate seeks hearing on election spending

A Fianna Fáil general election candidate is to take a legal action over limits on campaign spending.

A Fianna Fáil general election candidate is to take a legal action over limits on campaign spending.

Dublin mid-west candidate Mr Des Kelly is to seek leave from the High Court today for a judicial review of sections of the Election Act that he claims are unconstitutional and discriminate in favour of sitting TDs and senators.

Spending is limited by the relative size of a constituency, but monies paid out of public funds are not regarded as an election expense, allowing TDs and Senators 1,500 prepaid envelopes they receive each month.

Mr Kelly is seeking an early hearing before the election is called.

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone

  • Listen to In The News podcast daily for a deep dive on the stories that matter