Ministers must stick to the highest standards

WHILE some people have tried to justify Bertie Ahern’s actions by saying he was in debt, we shouldn’t begrudge him for having such generous friends in a time of need.

But what they forget is that he was a minister, and what may be acceptable behaviour for a private citizen is unacceptable for a holder of high public office.

A private citizen can chance his or her arm with the Revenue Commissioners by accepting a non-repayable loan. But a minister cannot. It doesn’t matter whether it was for a home extension or debts, a minister can’t take it. No buts, no excuses, no exceptions.