Ministers silent on legal loopholes

TRANSPORT Minister Martin Cullen says motorists should not be allowed to escape on a technicality if they are caught speeding. (Irish Examiner November 24).

“I have a very strong view which I want in the core of legislation. You’re either guilty or you’re not guilty. To me anything beyond that is morally wrong — if you are guilty of something, you should be convicted of it”, he declared.

Mr Cullen’s points here are clear, strong and very true. And I feel that when legislation is being drafted, these things need to be considered. But I would like to know how Mr Cullen feels about a judge escaping a possible conviction allegedly for having child pornography on his computer.

And it seems that whether it’s right or wrong, it won’t matter once the warrant is out of date.

I feel strongly that it should not matter how the authorities get their hands on such evidence. And I would like to know why no minister has stood up and expressed concern that these loopholes can be exploited for the benefit of high-profile figures.

Legislation was changed at the drop of a hat after it was revealed the Taoiseach took money from anyone willing to give it. Yet when it comes to moral issues such as our children’s safety, no minister has the spunk to speak out.

Alan Moynihan

Sunvalley Court

Fairhill

Cork