Penalty points scandal - Political elitism must be ended

Leaving aside the inordinate pay, perks, pensions and long holidays of TDs and senators, the public are sick to the teeth of the kind of constitutional privilege which affords politicians protection from being arrested either when going to, or returning from, or being within, the precincts of either the Dáil or Seanad.

This bizarre law is a hangover from darker days and a glaring example of how inappropriate privilege is still enjoyed by the political classes. It is almost as if by virtue of being elected they somehow become elevated to a status that puts them head and shoulders above the other citizens of the country.

Today’s front-page exposé relating to the controversy surrounding the penalty points system, including penalties for speeding or use of mobile phones by politicians while driving, provides a graphic illustration of the urgency for reform of nod-and-wink laws which set TDs and senators apart from other people.