Two contrasting views on the public image of politicians were given in the Dáil yesterday. Michael O'Regan reports.
Mr Dinny McGinley (FG, Donegal South-West) warned that the public was becoming increasingly cynical about politics and politicians.
"This is reflected in the growing disillusionment with local representatives and low voter turnout at elections," he said. "It is also reflected in a greater public disenchantment in people's ability to have their voices heard."
The public was not to blame, said Mr McGinley.
"Much of the blame lies with politicians. As a class, we must put up our hands and bear some of the responsibility," he added.
Mr McGinley said that responsibility lay with members of the House "to clean up the sleaze and scandal" which had become associated with politics.
Mr Peter Kelly (FF, Longford-Roscommon) said he welcomed the input of politicians in making representations on behalf of bodies in their localities.
"As I travel the country, I find there is no one as aware or as knowledgeable as the local and national politicians in their own areas," he added. "I do not see how anyone could doubt or question the huge commitment which politicians make to the people and their areas, regardless of the political party to which they belong."
Mr Kelly added: "People are getting a good service from their politicians. Most of them work 24 hours a day and seven days a week, non-stop. They are committed to their job, they enjoy it and they are good at it. Moreover, they have the faith of the people." The remarks were made during a debate on the Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Bill.
The Minister of State for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Mr Noel Ahern, said the Bill provided that the Government would, in future, decide on disbursements from the fund, but following a public application process and with a framework of transparency and process set out in law.