Deasy revolt – Fine Gael must regain credibility

AT a time when ministers stand accused of seeking headlines but failing to deliver on promises, the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has left serious question marks hanging over the latest crop of announcements from the Coalition.

Following Mr Ahern's refusal under heated Dáil questioning to confirm whether Cabinet approval was given for the recruitment of 2,000 gardaí, Justice Minister Michael McDowell faces a charge of making policy on the hoof.

Heightening the perception of a minister producing policies off the top of his head, Mr Ahern refused to be drawn on the minister's ambitious plans for two new prisons.