Dáil drinking is a disgrace

In itself, the recent Dáil incident involving Áine Collins and Tom Barry could be described as a harmless bit of horseplay between two work colleagues that was blown out of all proportions.

Since then it has come to light that the taxpayer-subsidised Dáil bar was open until 5am and that many of our legislators were intoxicated. These are the people we have entrusted to look after our welfare in their decision making. In light of the seriousness of the occasion, where the issue of life and death was been debated, this incident ought to be considered despicable and totally disrespectful.

We are told that alcohol consumption impairs a person’s driving judgement. It surely follows that it also impairs the serious legislative judgement of our politicians. It has not been long since almost three weeks of Dáil time was wasted on the penalty points issue and yet alcohol consumption seems to be acceptable in our parliament.