Exchequer returns - Jumping the gun

IF a drowning man clutches at a straw and it turns out to be a green shoot that will do much more than save his life what’s not to like?

If that green shoot, however tender, is a genuine indication of a longed-for economic lift then we can all consider breathing a small sigh of relief.

Speaking yesterday in Maynooth, Taoiseach Brian Cowen, long before the embargo on yesterday’s exchequer returns passed, said he was encouraged that “we are expecting today’s tax returns to come in on target”.

This is, in itself, good news to be celebrated. The manner of its announcement though points to all that has become shabby and suspect about our politics. Mr Cowen made the announcement less than 48 hours before voting begins in local and European elections.

The sad thing is that he and his supporters will probably see nothing inappropriate about the way he jumped the gun.