Michael Lowry’s ‘fine girl you are’ note to Enda Kenny in reference to Valerie O’Reilly shows that political patronage is as central to governing as it ever was, writes Michael Clifford

Independent TD Michael Lowry has confirmed he lobbied the previous government to get a former adviser onto a state board and that he has no regrets pressing the Coalition for her reappointment.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has become embroiled in a Father Ted-style ‘lovely girls’ controversy over the way he was lobbied to make a State appointment.

The directors of the company granted a controversial meeting with Phil Hogan through Michael Lowry are close relatives of the Tipperary TD’s media adviser.