The absent ‘third man’ who had a huge part in Fine Gael’s bust-up

GEORGE LEE might be forgiven had he indulged himself in a bit of “whatifery” on Monday evening as news of Richard Bruton’s sacking as deputy leader and finance spokesman of Fine Gael emerged. For example, what if Lee had remained in the Dáil rather than packing in political life last February for a quick return to the relative comforts of RTÉ?

What if Enda Kenny then had used the opportunity presented unexpectedly to him to promote Lee to the position of FG finance spokesman in place of Bruton?

Or what if Bruton had stalled his challenge for fear of Lee being promoted as his replacement to public acclaim, bolstering Kenny and weakening Bruton’s chances of ultimately seizing control of the party?