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I make my views plain on many things. Witnessing and hearing the disgusting Dail antics once again coming from Fianna Fail elected, enabled by Fine Gael and the Green Party this week, I state the following.
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Corruption in politics is a scourge that undermines or modern democracy. It continues to erode public trust in government institutions. In Ireland, the continued presence of corrupt elected and their officials they have conveniently appointed at key select department locations, some who turn a blind eye to criminality and immoral acts by their colleagues, is a serious threat to the integrity of our political system. It is imperative that these corrupt individuals be exposed and removed from power, so that the people of Ireland can have confidence in the transparency and fairness of their government.
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There have been numerous high-profile cases of political corruption in Ireland in recent years, involving both national and local elected officials. Christ almighty, since the 2020 government formed, they have been connected to over 70+ farces alone. This is just nuts! These cases range from the acceptance of apparent bribes (in kind by services offerd, favours done, etc) by politicians in exchange for instant or later returned possible favours, a constant misuse of public funds for personal gain, to the covering up of criminal and immoral activity by colleagues.
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In all of these cases, the result is the same: a betrayal of the public trust and an erosion of the legitimacy of our political system. One of the most troubling aspects of political corruption in Ireland is the tendency of elected and their elite officials, to look the other way when their colleagues engage in criminal or immoral behaviour. This creates a culture of impunity, where corrupt individuals are able to operate with little fear of repercussions.
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This, in turn, leads to a breakdown of the rule of law and a sense of lawlessness among those in positions of power. The public feel disconnected from accessing justice while they see the likes of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael trash repeatedly not held to proper account. Instead, they see the usual party slimeballs further protecting them. Furthermore, when elected and officials turn a blind eye to corruption, they are effectively condoning it. This sends a message to the public that such behaviour is acceptable, which can have a ripple effect throughout society. It can lead to a sense of cynicism among the electorate, as well as a belief that the political system is rigged in favour of those with power and influence.
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The consequences of political corruption in Ireland are far-reaching. It undermines the legitimacy of the political system, making it more difficult for good existing elected officials to even try govern effectively. It also leads to a sense of disillusionment among the electorate, who may become less likely to engage in the democratic process if they believe that their voices are not being heard. This, in turn, can lead to a vicious cycle, where corruption becomes more entrenched as fewer and fewer people participate in the political process.
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To combat political corruption in Ireland, it is necessary to take a multi-faceted approach. This includes measures such as
1. increased transparency and accountability in government,
2. stronger enforcement of anti-corruption laws, and
3. the establishment of genuine independent oversight bodies to monitor the behaviour of elected officials. Officials that are NOT appointed by sitting government ministers.
4. It also requires a cultural shift, where the acceptance of corruption is no longer tolerated and where those who engage in such behaviour are held fare greater accountable, through better improved accountable practises.
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…Thus my seeking for the constitutional reinstatement (modern updated) of “Participatory Democracy” and “Recall”.
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Ultimately, the fight against political corruption in Ireland is a fight for the integrity of our political system and the health of our democracy. It requires the participation and engagement of all members of society, from the public at large to elected others, themselves. By working together to root out corruption and hold those responsible accountable, we can create a more just and equitable society, where the rule of law is respected and the voices of the people are heard.
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For our own damn sake – and more so for our children, it’s imperative we do this. ALL OF US DO THIS.
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Jeff Rudd.
30th April, 2023.
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