|
No reason yet for Bertie Ahern to stand down IT’S
been a tough week for Bertie Ahern and it doesn’t look as though
it’s going to get any easier.
His appearance before the Mahon Tribunal into alleged corruption in Ireland’s
planning process was less than convincing.
The crucial point hangs on how much was paid into one of the Taoiseach’s
accounts and in what currency.
During his two days in the witness box last week Mr Ahern struggled to
clarify inconsistencies about the sources and details of four large lodgments
that benefited him in 1994 and 1995 when he was Minister for Finance and
later the leader of Fianna Fáil.
He also faced a hostile reception from the public when he departed Dublin
Castle following his appearance.
Now Mr Ahern is facing another two days of evidence later this week.
If that goes badly it is likely opposition parties will be ready to turn
the heat up on him when the Dáil resumes later this month.
So just as Mr Ahern should have been basking in the glory of a further
term as Taoiseach it seems events from the past are once again returning
to haunt him.
There can be little doubt Mr Ahern made some grave errors when he accepted
the various payments from friends and businessmen when he was Minister
for Finance in the 1990s.
He has repeatedly contended he did nothing wrong — which is true.
However, in hindsight it is obvious his actions were politically ill-advised.
Any politician charting a similar course these days would undoubtedly
be forced to resign.
But let’s not forget one very important thing. Mr Ahern went into
the General Election with these matters in the public domain.
The voters knew the full facts and the explanations and still endorsed
Mr Ahern’s bid for another term as Taoiseach.
For that reason alone he should be allowed to get on with the job.
The only possible scenario where resignation should be contemplated is
if it is proved Mr Ahern has deliberately lied to the public or the tribunal.
At present there is absolutely no evidence of that.
Congratulations to all
THE IRISH community was out in force again at The Irish Post Awards 2007
ovwe the weekend.
This glittering occasion has become one of the highlights of the Irish
social scene in Britain and this year was no exception.
Congratulations to all the award winners who richly deserved their accolades.
To single out one may be unfair — but it was wonderful to see Irish
business legend John Murphy receive a standing ovation from the audience.
If you weren’t there on the night take a look at our special awards
supplement in the centre of this edition.
And then make a date in your diary for next year. |
