A chara, - So the Government-supporting Independents have forced a climbdown on the issue of abolishing the dual mandate. I am appalled that the Minister for the Environment and Local Government, Noel Dempsey, has been hung out to dry by Government colleagues to meet the selfish whims of four individuals who between them represent less than half of one per cent of the national vote.
Once again, senior members in my party, Fianna Fail, have failed to defend party policy and principle - this time in the vitally important area of local government reform. Why not call the Independents' bluff? Let them try and bring a good Government down - would the people be grateful for a general election caused by Mildred Fox's desire to continue to sit on Wicklow County Council or so that Jackie Healy Rae could keep his seat warm in County Hall in Tralee?
What action did the Government take over Harry Blaney's public opposition to the Nice Treaty? None, yet the Donegal deputy can then call the shots on other issues. It seems that one can be more effective as an Independent huffing and puffing on the plinth at Leinster House rather than as a Government backbencher.
The four Independents stress their desire to serve on local authorities. Could I urge the electorate in their four constituencies at the next general election to fulfil their demands by transferring votes across all parties that support the abolition of the dual mandate and ensuring that individuals who have a greater regard for the national interest are returned. - Is mise le meas,
Malcolm Byrne, Fianna Fail member, Gorey Town Commissioners, Gorey, Co Wexford.