Accountability across society: Why are we so afraid of the truth?

FOUR years ago we described the rejection of the proposed amendment to the Constitution that would allow the Oireachtas conduct an inquiry that might lead to adverse findings against individuals as a victory for the Ansbacher classes. Tragically, but all too predictably, the Banking Inquiry has fallen into the same category.

Hopelessly constrained from its belated inception, it could not — despite the best efforts of its sometimes outgunned members — come to the kind of conclusions that might show that our democracy values and expects public accountability in public affairs.

Once again our untouchables fly under the radar unscathed and oblivious to the prospect of even the mildest sanction.