Ambiguity on Europe - It’s time for the Greens to grow up

REACHING a decision, being able to take and argue a position no matter what it is are two of the responsibilities expected of any political party worth its Oireachtas envelopes.

That unavoidable responsibility applies especially to a party in government.

For the Greens to suggest that their decision this weekend, which allows party members to oppose the European Union reform treaty while their three cabinet members will campaign for its endorsement, has anything to do with grown-up politics is just plain daft.

In a hunt-with-the-hounds-and-run-with-the-hare position that would make an a la carte Catholic look committed the Greens have shown a political immaturity that places them in the aspirational world of the ashram rather than one informed by realpolitik.

A party that cannot reach a unified position or at least accept collective responsibility on an issue as fundamental as the EU reform treaty leaves itself open to the valid accusation that such ambiguity undermines the principles that shape effective democracy.

All of this is a pity because the core message of the Greens — respect for the environment — was never more important. So important in fact that this weekend’s charade, which would bring the leadership of any other political party into question, must be the last such indulgence the Greens allow themselves if they are to be considered fit for government.