Right to silence - McDowell in U-turn to win votes

POLITICAL somersaults are in vogue judging by the acrobatic policy leap performed by Justice Minister Michael McDowell on the thorny question of the right to silence of suspects.

The Tánaiste’s controversial proposal to further restrict the right to silence has caused shockwaves in legal circles because it is the same as one he rejected nearly four years ago.

Once again, the PD leader, who famously climbed up a ladder during an election campaign to attract media attention, stands accused of blatant electioneering.