Sir, - Hypocrisy in politics is to be expected. However, when those who adopt the high moral ground are found out, the offence is surely greater. The behaviour of the Progressive Democrats in recent times is incredible and one wonders how they can remain a credible party.
On a personal level I have a lot of time for Mary Harney, but her recent Manorhamilton performance defies logic and if the boot was on the other political foot, she would be demanding the resignation of the relevant Tánaiste or Minister.
Obviously her commitment to public and political morality is skin-deep and this shallowness extends to her eagerness to accept PD candidates in the forthcoming election irrespective of their political convictions. It is clear that the only difference for Tom Parlon and Michael McDowell between PD and Fine Gael policy is that the rewards of political office are potentially greater with the PDs. The big fish in the small pool syndrome.
Locally, further examples of PD double standards are evident. Cllr Fiona O'Malley contested the last local elections in the Stillorgan Ward and proclaimed that she was a resident of Mount Merrion and committed to the area. After the election the Mount Merrion address was dropped (the home of a PD supporter) and she returned to her home in Ranelagh. Shortly afterwards she began canvassing for election to Dáil Éireann in the Dun Laoghaire constituency. Her election and commitment to the Stillorgan Ward amounted to a stepping stone to greater things.
So, locally or nationally, the PDs are consistent: use whatever means or opportunity to get elected and attain power. This policy might be historically consistent with Fianna Fáil, but when the PDs adopt the same approach, one must ask if they have any role to play in Irish politics. Would they be better served aligning themselves permanently with the highest bidder, be it Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael? - Yours, etc.,
GEARÓID O'KEEFFE,
Mount Merrion,
Co Dublin.