Why we should always remember ex-minister Lowry’s colourful past

TO compare Michael Lowry to Mario Balotelli might seem ridiculous, but bear with me for a few moments please.

What could the Tipperary North TD have in common with the Italian football star who plays for Manchester City? How could parallels be drawn between the ongoing financial controversies involving the former Government minister and the troubled footballer who seems to draw trouble upon himself both on and off the pitch? Or between the actions of a seemingly mature and world-aware adult and those of a clearly immature young man?

Well, the common thread is the pleas of victimhood and of being misunderstood that we hear from both whenever their actions are uncovered. During one match last season the Italian celebrated a goal by lifting his jersey to reveal a t-shirt with the slogan, “why always me?” This came from a man who, among other things, has started a fire in his own house by allowing his friends to set off fireworks in a bathroom.