‘You work for us and you are answerable to us’

“YOU work for us and you are answerable to us” ... that is the message the electorate now needs to send to all politicians given the privilege of sitting in the Dáil, particularly those at ministerial level.

As the Seanad is a hothouse for rare blooms, why should anyone who cannot vote in elections to that assembly have to pay for the comfortable lifestyle of a senator?

On another point, there are few people in what we call a republic wildly enthused by the sight of puffed-up politicians traipsing off for St Patrick’s Day to parts of the world that are well supplied with opulent hotels and restaurants. If it is regarded as necessary, a bowl of shamrock could be presented to the US president by the Irish ambassador, who is also paid from the public purse.

Now we know there is such a thing as a free lunch not only for ministers and other eminences, but there are also gourmet meals for their wives, husbands, partners, long-time companions and maybe even the family pet. We do not think kindly of these vanity trips.

As for the argument that they are representing us, we are far better represented by our musicians and writers.

Maureen O’Donnell

Haig Gardens

Ballinlough