Taoiseach doesn’t have to answer all questions

Shaun Connolly’s article (Jul 7) on Enda Kenny is essentially a reprise of his scathingly contemptuous remarks regarding An Taoiseach, delivered on RTE radio on Friday morning.

The expectation that politicians should be willing to respond to any question from a journalist, regardless of the complexity or sensitivity of the issue, seems to be universal among members of the fourth estate.

Politicians themselves must bear some of the responsibility through their willingness to respond when door-stepped.

Enda Kenny may not be a polished media performer but, contrary to Shaun Connolly’s belief, that is not the most important chapter in “How to be a Taoiseach”, particularly at a time of unprecedented economic crisis at home and in the eurozone.

As for “How to be a political correspondent”, someone should show Mr Connolly the chapter on basic manners. We’re not in UK tabloid territory – yet. Unless the Irish Examiner has decided to spice up its coverage with the kind of sarcastic abuse spouted by Mr Connolly on RTE.

Peter Molloy

9 Haddington Park

Glenageary

Co Dublin