Outgoing councillors in West Clare have agreed not to use posters for the upcoming local elections in May.
Cllr Ian Lynch in March 2017 initially raised the suggestion to introduce bylaws to abolish posters for future elections, the move was welcomed by all councillors of the West Clare Municipal District at the time and has been reviewed by the MD since. Legislation prohibits the outright banning of posters for Presidential, European, General and Local elections.
However, administration officer John Corry outlined on Wednesday that a voluntary charter had been agreed by councillors in Newcastlewest where existing members have abstained from putting up posters. “It can’t be enforced through legislation”.
Cathaoirleach, Ian Lynch commented, “Most candidates are very good but some forget about their posters. Anything we can do to help the environment would be positive”. The Independent councillor admitted that he had a pile of old posters still in his shed at home.
“I’ve survived eight elections without a poster”, veteran councillor PJ Kelly declared. “I’m allergic to airbrushing and respect the intelligence of voters”. The Fianna Fáil councillor added, “It is for respect of the people alone, touched up photos won’t change people’s minds”.
Both Cllr Lynch & Cllr Kelly proposed a voluntary charter, they were unanimously supported by fellow elected representatives. The enforcement does not apply to new candidates.
