Rehab controversy - A simple ultimatum

Rehab executives have shown contempt for the idea of accountability, imagining themselves beyond the reach of Dáil committees, but any organisation that gets north of €80m a year from the exchequer cannot give two fingers to those ensuring public monies are used wisely.

Frank Flannery, former Rehab CEO and longtime Fine Gael heavyweight, strategist, and associate of Enda Kenny, did not attend Dáil committee hearings on Rehab.

Mr Flannery has been paid thousands by the charity to lobby the Government on Rehab’s behalf. In this context, Mr Kenny’s suggestion that Mr Flannery should answer the Dáil committee’s questions is pretty spineless.

It would be far better if Mr Kenny gave Mr Flannery a simple ultimatum — answer the questions openly and comprehensively or Fine Gael will dispense with your services. It is really that simple.