Electoral Commission publishes concluded investigation update (November 2024)
Electoral Commission publishes concluded investigation update
The Electoral Commission has fined the Irish Republican Socialist Party (NI) after concluding an investigation into the party’s failure to keep accounting records that were sufficient to show and explain the party’s transactions.
The announcement is part of the Commission’s monthly update on concluded investigations.
| Who we investigated | What we investigated | What we found | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irish Republican Socialist Party (NI) | The party’s failure to keep accounting records that were sufficient to show and explain the party’s transactions | One contravention found | Fine of £250 Penalty due by 3 December 2024 |
By law, a registered party must ensure accounting records are kept which are sufficient to show and explain the party’s transactions. The accounting records must disclose, with reasonable accuracy, the financial position of the party at that time.
Jackie Killeen, Director of Electoral Administration and Regulation, said:
“Our investigation into the Irish Republican Socialist Party (NI) found failures to deliver relevant financial information required by law.
“The laws we enforce are there to ensure transparency in the political finance regime and to increase public confidence in our system, so it’s important that reliable accounting records are available.”
Ends
For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, out of office hours 07789 920 414 or [email protected]
Notes to editors
- The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity by:
• enabling the delivery of free and fair elections and referendums, focusing on the needs of electors and addressing the changing environment to ensure every vote remains secure and accessible.
• regulating political finance – taking proactive steps to increase transparency, ensure compliance and pursue breaches.
• using our expertise to make and advocate for changes to our democracy, aiming to improve fairness, transparency and efficiency.
The Commission was set up in 2000 and reports to the UK, Welsh and Scottish parliaments. - This release forms part of the Commission’s regular monthly investigations update, an important part of its commitment to deliver transparency in political finance in the UK. Information of this nature is published routinely on the third Tuesday of each month. Details of investigations closed in previous months are available on our website.
- Penalties imposed by the Commission go into the Consolidated Fund. This is managed by HM Treasury and not the Electoral Commission.