Cullen the ‘worst-ever’ environment minister

VERY few people will feel much sense of regret at the much-trumpeted decision of Arts, Sport and Tourism Minister Martin Cullen belatedly to bow out of political life.

It can be said of many politicians that at least they did no harm, but even this cannot be said of Cullen.

Without doubt he was the worst-ever Minister for the Environment.

Notable and regrettable events that took place during his tenure included the erection of a hotel adjacent to Ireland’s premier Anglo-Norman castle in Trim, Co Meath, and the Carrickmines Castle debacle which led to his amending the National Monuments Act to vest sole power in his ministry after losing a High Court challenge.

The worst-ever Environment Minister and, indeed, that’s saying something with a predecessor such as Pádraig Flynn and a successor like Dick Roche.

JD Mangan

Stillorgan Road

Stillorgan

Co Dublin