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TAOISEACH BRIAN Cowen has a duty of care to the democratic system that goes beyond the knee-jerk protection of Fianna Fáil colleagues or the immediate concerns of government. That places him in an invidious position, because of the relaxed attitude adopted by his predecessors to ethical issues. But, at a time when public confidence in all forms of authority has waned, there is a need to promote high standards and to ensure political accountability.

After weeks of pressure from Fine Gael, Minister for Defence Willie O’Dea may attend the Dáil and explain how he happened to make a false statement, in a sworn affidavit, to the High Court last year. But only if Mr Cowen asks him to do so. This is a most serious matter for the Minister. But to appoint the Taoiseach as the effective arbiter of his behaviour complicates the situation considerably and may eventually create friction between the Coalition parties.