Time to fight and get us a fair deal

ON the Frontline on Monday evening the two newly-elected left-wing TDs, Clare Daly and Dessie Ellis received a less than warm welcome from the audience who viewed them with suspicion.

However, Ms Daly and Mr Ellis have received a mandate from the people to represent them in the 31st Dáil. They bring an interesting dimension to the EU/IMF bailout debate and would repudiate the deal if in power.

According to economist David McWilliams, by the end of next year, the interest payment on our total debts could be as much as 85% of the 2010 income tax take. Income tax in 2010 was €14.125bn.

The bank debt for which the Irish State has assumed responsibility therefore means that the interest payments alone by the end of 2012 will be €12bn per annum. He suggests that the issue be put before the people under Article 27 of the Constitution — a position that would surely be endorsed by the left. EU Commissioner Oli Rehn has suggested that there is wiggle room in terms of the interest rate payable.

Even he can see that the surge to the left in the general election could spell trouble further down the line if Ireland is not given a fair deal.

A technical group comprising Sinn Féin, United Left Alliance and independents will certainly put it up to the new government at every turn. On March 24, Enda Kenny and his team need to do the same to our EU “partners”.

Killian Brennan

Malahide Road

Dublin 17