Man of conviction

THERE is not much Michael McDowell’s political philosophy that I share.

However, I found some of the snide comments about him unsettling. That awful, smug self-righteousness of some of those who claim to be on the left about a conviction politician, even if he is on the other side, is bad for politics.

Perhaps if more on the left actually listened to ordinary people and had listened less to the allegedly left-wing commentators we would be in a stronger position.

In the meantime I want to extend to Michael McDowell my appreciation for his courtesy as a constituency colleague and my respect as someone who, from his perspective, brought a fresh and conviction-based approach to politics.

Cllr Dermot Lacey

66 Beech Hill Drive

Donnybrook

Dublin 4