Gun crime comments - McDowell undermines his position

TÁNAISTE and Justice Minister Michael McDowell was under heavy political fire last night after he admitted that drug-related gun crime is now a “matter of huge concern for the State”.

In fact, he compared the current threat presented by drug and criminal gangs as being similar to the earlier danger posed by the paramilitaries, who threatened the very foundations of our democracy.

Politicians generally crave publicity, and Mr McDowell has been no exception. He has played for high stakes and has enjoyed a particularly high profile over the past two decades.