Sir, – As the current presidential campaign has drawn to a close, readers may wish to cut out and save this list of candidates’ clichés and their actual meanings for use seven years hence: “I want to get back to the issues” (Stop asking me awkward questions!); “I’ve dealt with that now let’s move on” (I’m not answering any more awkward questions); “This is not what the presidency should be all about!” (Enough already with the awkward questions!); “Negative campaigning” (Awkward questions). – Yours, etc,
Sir, – I must respond to Dr Seán Marlow’s assertion that Martin McGuinness MP didn’t touch his salary (October 26th). The Register of Members interests for the UK parliament shows Mr McGuinness continued to draw a monthly salary of £5,952.75, until at least July of this year.
Also, the latest figures available, show expenses for 2009 of £158,247, including staff costs of £98,797. “Staying away from home” costs of £19,800, amongst others, ranking him 221st highest expenses of the 647-member lower house. –
Yours, etc,