Expenses scandal will claim scalps on all sides

THE John O’Donoghue expenses scandal is a replication of the recent FÁS/Westminister and imminent Stormont expenses outcry and is one welcome aspect of a recession.

At a time when thousands of ordinary taxpayers have lost their jobs and homes, John O’Donoghue indulged himself in an outrageous fashion at the taxpayers expense.

There is a total lack of governance and reality in the political system despite claims that such expenses “comply with Department of Finance guidelines”.

It is inconceivable that all the expenses disclosed here were wholly and exclusively incurred in the discharge of official duties which should render them taxable.

If John O’Donoghue could do it unimpeded then it follows that many other TD’s can and are behaving in the same over-indulgent manner.

The opposition outrage is tempered just enough to keep the lid on a scandal which will claim casualties across both sides of the house – as it did in Westminster – if it is not laid to rest soon.

At the time of writing, however, it remains to be seen whether John O’Donoghue will be sacrificed in an attempt by all sides to put an end to this “unpleasant” affair.

James Gorman

Carraig Cluain

Tullamore

Co Offaly