Mrs Robinson’s archives: Nice work if you can get it

MARY Robinson’s presidency, from 1990 to 1997, was one of the steps we took in our long, meandering march towards modernity. 

Her years in office symbolised a determined break from a dull, introverted, and highly-controlled past. Her presidency, which she cut short to join the UN, was a game-changer and for that we all owe her a debt of gratitude. That debt is expressed, if not discharged, through a generous pension of over €120,000 a year for life for seven years of work.

It was reported yesterday by The Sunday Times that Finance Minister Michael Noonan has approved a scheme that would entitle Mrs Robinson to a €2m tax break because she has decided to give her archives to Mayo County Council.