Taoiseach Should Confirm Whether or Not Alleged Russian Oireachtas Asset is a Threat to National Security

Taoiseach Should Confirm Whether or Not Alleged Russian Oireachtas Asset is a Threat to National Security – Tóibín

Aontú Leader and Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín stated:

The Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the Minister for Justice receive National Security updates on a regular basis. If there is indeed an Oireachtas member who has engaged with, and operated in the interests of Russian intelligence, it is impossible to imagine that this individual has not been brought to the attention of the Taoiseach, Tánasite and Minister for Justice. The Taoiseach knows who is the alleged Russian asset in the Oireachtas is. The Taoiseach should end speculation and confirm whether or not alleged Russian Oireachtas asset is a threat to National Security.

Elected representatives have a legal, ethical and political responsibility to represent the bests interests of their constituents. It is impossible to fulfil these responsibilities and work in the interests of a foreign power such as Russia at the same time. Democracy should operate on the basis of transparency and accountability. If these allegations are true this democratic transparency and accountability have been totalled in this case.

If these allegations have no basis in fact the Taoiseach should also state this and put an end to the speculation and rumour mill.

The Irish political system is radically broken

In Ireland the vast majority of elected representatives put a finger in the air to check which way the political wind is blowing. They have one eye on their leaders – seeking brownie points – and another eye keeping their seat safe. If elected reps shut up and do as they’re told, they are promoted; if they stand up for what they believe in, they are demoted. No wonder we have the political class we have. No wonder one point one billion euro is being buried in a hole under the National Children’s Hospital and that Stormont is in stalemate.

Throughout Ireland, many people are now afraid to say what they feel, many are afraid to respectfully engage on a range of different topics. Many feel there is a new censorship and a new political correctness in Ireland, that opposition to the establishment is being deleted.

Respectful opposition is not the enemy. Respectful opposition is a critical element of a functional democracy. Aontú will have the backbone to stand up, without fear, for you.