Archdiocese warn against referendum leaflets in churches

Dublin’s Catholic archdiocese has advised priests that, in the context of forthcoming referendums, churches are not appropriate places to distribute campaign literature and that in no circumstance should they be distributed through schools.

A statement on the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference website says that “experience has shown that during political campaigns, churches, because of their public accessibility, are prone to the placement of political and campaigning literature.

“In light of the announcement that some referendums will be held later this year, parishes are reminded that churches are not appropriate places for the distribution of literature of a purely electoral or campaigning nature, during referendums or election campaigns.

“Every effort should be made to ensure that churches are not used for the dissemination of campaign literature from any source.”

It says that “parish priests and rectors of churches are responsible for verifying the appropriateness of any publications which are on sale or distributed gratis in their churches or grounds. Campaign material should in no circumstance be distributed through schools.”

Where parish publications in general are concerned it advises “newsletters distributed in the name of a parish community should not be used as a vehicle for the expression of personal views.”

It adds that “the focus of any parish newsletter or web and social media should be to circulate information on liturgies, parish events, parish contacts, death notices, and charitable events concerning the local parish community and the wider archdiocese.”

When publishing information or images concerning named individuals it points out “it is best practice to seek their permission in advance. Publication of details such as addresses and mobile phone numbers should be avoided, where possible, if necessary it must be done with consent.”

On publishing images of children under the age of 18 it says “permission must be sought from a parent or guardian. It is good practice to clarify this with parents/guardians at the time of the authorised photo being taken. Images of children should not be published along with their full names.”

It advises that “the parish priest or administrator, or a nominee of his choice, should exercise editorial control over the parish newsletter and other media platforms.”

Where there may be doubt over any of these matters, it says the local diocesan communications office is available to advise further “about the nature of an article or post submitted for publication in print or on line.”