Sir, - I would like to respond to some claims made by Vincent Browne in his column of April 21st.
Last week, while the rest of us were preparing for the publication of two major reports, the contents of which would call into question the confidence of many citizens in the integrity and impartiality of our system of justice, Vincent Browne claimed that the affair was merely a "tremble in a teacup". Mr Browne's analysis, as the Hamilton report subsequently revealed, was somewhat wide of the mark.
In respect of the Sheedy case, my comments - unlike those made by others in Dail Eireann and on the public airwaves about any of the individuals involved - were at all times measured, temperate and restrained. I reject Mr Browne's claim that I was "baying" about the issue or "demanding the head of others". If Mr Browne took the time to check the public record he would find that my statements on this matter were responsible and considered.
It is unfortunate that Mr Browne's idiosyncratic and individualistic view of public affairs prevents him from grasping the facts and I regret that he must resort to personal attacks as a substitute for watertight arguments.
Finally, Vincent Browne refers to the Hepatitis C controversy of 1994. He proceeds then to comment as if it had some relevance to the Sheedy Affair. The entire history of its handling by me and my successor in office was dealt with by a tribunal of inquiry. I believe that your readers will find Mr Justice Finlay's conclusions more accurate and impartial than Mr Browne's own personal tribunal findings. - Yours, etc.,
Brendan Howlin TD, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, Dail Eireann, Dublin 2.