Posters for the local and European elections can now be seen in towns and cities all over the country.

But are election posters really necessary, or are they just an eyesore? And should they be banned?

Dr Jane Suiter, Director of the Institute for Future Media and Journalism at DCU, says: "If it weren't for posters, there would be a much lower awareness that there is an election happening."

She also feels they provide an opportunity for children to have a chat about the election or referendum, and a chance for for newer or less well-known election candidates to get their face out there.

She was joined by Des Burke Kennedy, representative of Dalkey Tidy Towns, and Seamus Maguire, Independent Donegal Councillor and co-founder of Posterfree.ie, to discuss the issue.