Fox vox

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, revealed in the Dail recently that an official from his department had been detailed to look after…

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, revealed in the Dail recently that an official from his department had been detailed to look after the "requirements and needs" of the three Independent deputies who support the Government - Mildred Fox, Jackie Healy Rae and Harry Blaney. The minder certainly proved his worth this week when Ms Fox's displeasure meant the allocation to the anti-Sellafield group in Louth was suddenly up for review again and the £200,000 offer by the Government is no longer the final figure. The by-election looming in nearby Dublin North may also have been a consideration although, judging from the interview in Ireland On Sunday earlier this month, the Government need have no worries about Deputy Fox. In her ideal cabinet, she would have Mary Harney as Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern as Tanaiste and - before he made it - David Andrews as Minister for Foreign Affairs.