Ban on using personal data

THE DATA protection commissioner Billy Hawkes has warned politicians that they will be breaking the law if they use personal data they have collected to send unsolicited text messages or emails during the election campaign. The commissioner outlined that there has been a significant rise in the number of complaints about contact details obtained from sources.

Shorthall rapped in 'ragbags' row

LABOUR TD Roisin Shorthall came under fire from TDs she had labelled "ragbags". She described left-wing independents as a "motley crew collection" that were "offering themselves" for election. She made the comments on RTE's The Week In Politics, but Dublin North Central TD Finian McGrath said that the comments were "bordering on racism".

Party messed up -- minister

FIANNA Fail's Ned O'Keeffe has admitted that his party made a "dog's dinner" of things. The former junior minister confirmed that he would bow out in favour of his son, councillor Kevin O'Keeffe.

Mr O'Keeffe (68) informed the Cork East FF selection convention that he would not be defending the Dail seat.

Kenny finally breaks cover

FINE Gael leader Enda Kenny, who has been notably absent during the tumultuous week in politics, was spotted refuelling at an Esso garage on the N5 between Castlebar and Dublin.