IT’S hard not to be cynical so one shouldn’t try. When it comes to the issue of expenses our politicians must, of course, incur expenses to serve us, the citizens of these few square miles of land.
Of course, each and every one of our MPs, MLAs and soon to be new MEPs have incurred only those expenses that are absolutely necessary to meet the needs of their constituents and represent us in the august institutions of state.
Of course, if they employ a family member it is because that family member can deliver the appropriate research or policy back-up. They might even be able to type a letter or two.
Of course, if they incur costs for food or mortgage payments it is because their busy lifestyles mean they are running hither and thither to deliver finely honed arguments in debates and hold constituent surgeries.
Of course, if they decide to reform expenses at Westminster, Strasbourg or Stormont it is because they intended to do that all along.
Of course, there was not a hint of reform before the media started running headlines to that effect.
Was there a hint of an end to double-jobbing? Was there a hint that perhaps, just perhaps the politicians wanted to step off the gravy train?
The outraged electorate in England has already claimed the scalps of a few MPs. Will any scalps be claimed here in Northern Ireland? Not likely so long as the hysteria over which green candidate might win through or which orange candidate will secure the vote.
Which, of course, begs the question…what would it take before a politician in Northern Ireland could be forced to give up their salary and expenses?
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