Money Speaks in Irish Referendum – Intel and Ryanair
Richard North at EUReferendum has highlighted the usual EC tricks to secure a Yes vote in the forthcoming Irish Referendum.
As Richard says:
It is not only Ryanair that is playing the money game. The US multinational Intel took out a full page ad in the Irish Times to promote a “yes” vote. Intel’s move is designed to curry favour with the EU commission as it is currently facing a fine of over €1 billion under EU anti-trust legislation.
The way the referendum rules have been stitched up is, of course, another scandal. While campaign groups must adhere to strict limits on donations, companies or individuals can spend as much as they like promoting their views. Vested interests from Ireland and abroad can therefore spend millions attempting to influence how Irish people vote on 2nd October.
At least they are getting a vote.
EU Referendum: Bending the rules.
