You’ve seen good and bad days, Mary. Now it’s time to say goodbye

If you stay around long enough in the one position in politics, you will accumulate a lot of enemies. Harney has not lacked for courage or shirked conflict. Like all warriors, eventually the scars of battle take their toll. Too many health commentators, professionals and leaders want rid of her

You’ve seen good and bad days, Mary. Now it’s time to say goodbye

MARY HARNEY has had a long political career. Appointed by Jack Lynch to the Seanad 32 years ago, she has been one of the most formidable woman politicians in the State. As a former party leader, first female Tánaiste and minister over three decades she has made a significant contribution. The time has come for her to offer her resignation as part of an autumn reshuffle of senior ministers.

Mary Harney’s “best before” date was in 2006 when she stepped down as leader of the Progressive Democrats. Her “sell by” date was April 2008 when Bertie Ahern retired as Taoiseach. Her “use by” date is September 2009 when she will have spent precisely five years as minister for health. The case for her retirement is not based on any current specific issue. I support her stance on IPU fees and the national cancer strategy.

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