Politicians must lead by example and account for their own expenses

YOUR timely editorial (September 16) regarding the speech given recently by junior minister John McGuinness points up once again the glaring gap between the private wealth creators and the public sector.

It seems we in the private sector exist in order to finance the voracious demands of the public service. It should be the other way around.

Every modern economy needs an efficient, cost-effective public service to help the private sector earn the money necessary to pay for the running of the country. Mr McGuinness might have helped his case if he asked his political colleagues to take a pay cut and to account for all the expenses that TDs currently claim vouch-free. We in the private sector must abide by Revenue rules of accountability and evidence regarding business expenses, yet our politicians can claim up to €70,000 a year and not account for a cent of it. Is this fair?How can they expect the citizens of this republic to endure painful expenditure cuts if they do not give a lead? How can they expect public servants to accept a pay freeze in these circumstances? The craven response of Mr McGuinness’s political affiliates to his correct analysis of the problems in the public service should surprise no one. Most of them are overpaid time-servers who will not rock the boat.The present unsustainable system suits them fine, but it cannot last. Soon we who pay the piper will demand value for money, transparancy and honesty. The national interest demands it.