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Following publication of the first report of the Interdepartmental Group on Security of Ireland’s Electoral Process and Disinformation, a public consultation is today (Friday) being launched on ‘Regulation of Online Political Advertising in Ireland’, inviting views and comments from all stakeholders and members of the public. 

A discussion paper, which briefly outlines the issues and challenges involved in regulating transparency of online political advertising is being provided to stakeholders to assist submissions but should not be seen as exhaustive or indicative of government policy. 

This consultation will provide a basis for an Open Policy Forum involving main stakeholders to be held in November 2018. The aim of the forum will be to identify policy solutions that respect the right to freedom of expression and relevant EU law while promoting the transparency necessary to open political discourse in a democracy that will protect electoral processes from hidden influences and disinformation. 

The closing date for submissions is 19^th October 2018.

Public Consultation on Regulation of Online Political Advertising in Ireland.

Discussion Paper – Regulation of Online Political Advertising in Ireland.

Note to Editors:

Interdepartmental Group

The Interdepartmental Group on Security of Ireland’s Electoral Process and Disinformation, coordinated by the Department of the Taoiseach, has met on a number of occasions since its establishment. Membership includes representatives from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Justice and Equality, the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, the Department of Education and Skills, the Department of Defence, An Garda Síochána, and the Defence Forces.

The Group published its first report on Security of Ireland’s Electoral Process and Disinformation on 17th July 2018.

A key next Step is: Regulate transparency of online political advertising – the matter to be considered, in the first instance, by way of an Open Policy Forum involving political parties, industry organisations, academia, civil society, the media and NGOs in addition to formal engagement with the Oireachtas.

The Report identifies a number of proposals to address the gaps identified and offer a way forward on a more cohesive and coordinated approach to safeguarding of the electoral process from disinformation and security risks.