Transparency - Urgent need to revise proposals

Even in a society terribly bruised by too many shameful revelations, even in a society weary of scandal and greed, the last weeks have been more than disappointing for anyone who cherishes social equity and aspires to the benefits of proactive transparency in public life.

The sharp practice — and that is the most benign description possible of what went on — uncovered at the Central Remedial Clinic showed us all in a very poor light. Unfortunately, it will take a lot more than the resignation of the CRC board to undo the damage inflicted on a good and valued organisation and other organisations dependent on public support.

That top-ups scandal spread yesterday when St Vincent’s University Hospital said it would be “inappropriate” to provide the Government with details of allowances paid to senior staff. Minister for Health James Reilly warned that the hospital faces “serious consequences” — a withdrawal of funds — if it fails to co-operate with a HSE audit on sweeteners.