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Politicians reluctant to leave gravy train

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As of now I don't believe there is a shred of credibility within this Government, as they're proving extremely capable of contradicting themselves.

I draw my conclusions after listening to Brian Lenihan and John McGuinness's interviews with Sean O'Rourke on the 'News at One'.

Firstly, Mr Lenihan spoke with great loyalty and support for Mr Cowen, describing him as a very honourable person who had given him great support as Finance Minister.

However, Mr McGuinness seemed angry and disappointed.

Naturally, everybody will have their own views on the performances of the Taoiseach -- that's their prerogative.

As I recall, the Finance Minister and the Taoiseach denied the presence of the IMF and ECB, when they were actually discussing the €85bn bailout.

Yes, it seems that birds of a feather are flocking together.

Mr Lenihan and Mr Cowen, amongst others, are interested in self-preservation. Is it possible that that's why there is this huge reluctance on behalf of Mr Lenihan to publicly denounce or vote against Mr Cowen as leader and Taoiseach?

A successful vote of no-confidence in Mr Cowen could well mean a possible dissolving of the Government, quickly followed by having to face the public in a general election.

And no politician wants to lose their seat on the gravy train.

M Greville

Co Westmeath

Brian Cowen's reprieve is only temporary.

His support from the cosy Fianna Fail club will soon be blown away in the wind when the Irish electorate, who neither elected Cowen as Taoiseach nor leader of the party, present him with the most humiliating defeat ever seen in Irish politics.

It will be his well-deserved reward for the contempt he has shown the Irish people throughout his entire term of office.

David Bradley
Drogheda, Co Louth

Irish Independent