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Has Bertie lost the Plot?

category national | public consultation / irish social forum | opinion/analysis author Tuesday June 20, 2006 00:34author by Liam Mullen - Freelance Journalist

In delivering a resounding eulogy to his former mentor and “boss”, the late Taoiseach Charles J. Haughey, the current Taoiseach Bertie Ahern showed true compassion and tenacity in speaking warmly about CJ Haughey, but the question must be asked: Has Bertie Ahern and his top henchmen lost the plot?

The Taoiseach recently questioned poll findings that showed the Fianna Fail and Progressive Democrat coalition slipping in favour of a Fine Gael/Labour coalition, and he expressed surprise given that the FF/PD enjoyed higher poll ratings at the beginning of the year. In coming out so strongly for Charley, Ahern has displayed a political naivety that borders on the incredible and that may yet resound on his head.
In the end it was obvious that Charley Haughey had failed the people, including his beloved northside folk. The Moriarty Tribunal showed up the obvious failings of tax evasion and other similar matters, but Haughey’s legacy leaves questions unanswered about the enforced emigration of the 80’s due to Ireland’s poor fiscal policies, and about how well he supported the victim’s families following the tragic Stardust disaster.
The State funeral organised by the present government shows that the Irish people stayed away in droves from the final act of this multi-faceted play, but it should also serve notice on this present government that the Irish people are not fools, and will not suffer fools gladly. We didn’t betray Charley Haughey, but sadly he may have betrayed his people.


http://www.indymedia.ie/article/76710

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