Lowry censure - Real reform is needed

The Dáil passed a motion of censure calling on Michael Lowry to resign his seat. The motion, taken without a vote, was essentially a meaningless gesture with no more credibility than an anonymous complaint.

Despite all the recent talk of reform, the Dáil proceeded with the same kind of empty gesture that it adopted against Liam Lawlor in February 2002, when he treated a similar call for his resignation with contempt.

Deputies should have had the courage to stand up and be counted by voting on the motion. It might then have real significance, but it has no more significance today than an April fool’s joke.

Technically the vote was unanimous, but when the Ceann Comhairle first asked if TDs agreed with the motion, it was hard to imagine a more muted response.

Neither the Government nor the opposition came out of yesterday’s proceedings with much credit. Micheál Martin, the leader of Fianna Fáil, actually challenged the Taoiseach to say whether he accepted the conclusions of the Moriarty Tribunal. His challenge demonstrated the need for an actual vote.

The Ceann Comhairle and the Government deserved credit for insisting on natural justice, by giving Mr Lowry the chance to speak on the motion, despite the reprehensible objections of Sinn Féin. In the course of his address, Mr Lowry called for the current Garda enquiry into his case to be conducted expeditiously. It should have been initiated 14 years ago.

In a republic, politicians are not above the law and An Garda Síochána should investigate any alleged misconduct without fear or favour.

Establishing the judicial tribunal was tantamount to an admission that the gardaí were unable to do their job properly. The delay in calling on them is another reminder of the need for meaningful reform.