Graphic referendum posters are removed

GRAPHIC abortion-related posters using a photo of Minister Simon Harris were removed from locations around Bray yesterday.

The posters were located in a number of areas including Herbert Road, Killarney Road, Southern Cross, Quinsboro Road, Castle Street and the Main Street.

The election-style posters included Fine Gael branding and the image of what appears to be an aborted foetus. None of the groups from the ‘No’ side of the repeal of the eighth amendment referendum debate have claimed responsibility.

A spokesman for Bray Municipal District said that the posters were not legal, because they did not include the name and address of the body or individual responsible for erecting them. This is in breach of electoral laws.

Wicklow County Council said in a statement that they had referred the matter to the local returning officer for her attention.

Many of the posters had already been taken down yesterday morning when council staff went to look.

It is understood that this was done by private individuals.

A spokeswoman for Minister Harris said yesterday that he was in cabinet and unavailable to respond.

He did, however, Tweet earlier in the day: ‘ Thanks to those who contacted me about disgusting posters which have been put up across my constituency today. I saw them on my way to work. Have too much important work to do to give this time but want you to know it only makes me all the more determined to work #togetherforyes.’

A spokesperson for North Wicklow for Yes said that canvassing in the constituency has been a very positive experience, including conversations with ‘ No’ voters who have been very polite.