Paul Hosford: Cowen presents early headache for Martin

What began as a story of an historical three-month driving ban, has become a member of the government accusing An Garda Síochána of criminality.

Minister for Agriculture Barry Cowen TDduring a Government Cabinet meeting at Dublin Castle.Photo:Gareth Chaney/Collins

When news first emerged that Agriculture Culture Minister Barry Cowen had been banned from driving for being over the legal alcohol limit in 2016, it was a story of personal embarrassment for the veteran TD, painful memories for families who lost loved ones to drink-driving and a political headache for the Taoiseach.

Mr Cowen's Dáil address last Tuesday seemed to draw a line under the issue, until Sunday's events, which led to a government minister accusing An Garda Síochána of a criminal act.