Let’s hope we don’t have to pay for Johnny Ronan’s jet-set lifestyle too

IN normal circumstances, Johnny Ronan’s lifestyle would be a personal matter. While most newspapers have ignored him, some, and not just the tabloids, have enjoyed chronicling details of the 52-year-old businessman’s relationship with 20-something model and TV presenter Glenda Gilson.

They have titillated readers with details of a feisty on-off, champagne-fuelled affair; if you’re into reading that type of thing it has been a bit of fun, if not of any public interest. Until now, that is.

Things have changed somewhat now that Ronan is one of the first 10 property developers whose loans from banks are going to be transferred to NAMA. Suddenly, his ability to repay his debts is a matter of legitimate public concern.