Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Former taoiseach Brian Cowen Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

No full record of who visited Taoiseach's department on bank guarantee night

Enda Kenny has revealed that their is no exhaustive record of who visited his Department during the period leading up to the State guarantee of the banks nearly five years ago.

ENDA KENNY HAS revealed that there is no exhaustive record of who attended the Department of the Taoiseach in the period leading up to and on the night of the bank guarantee.

Answering parliamentary questions last week, the Taoiseach said that his department does not keep a record of attendance for general service staff in the Department of the Taoiseach.

A visitors book is maintained at the welcoming pavilion of the department on Merrion Street but he said: “This is not an exhaustive record of all visitors who attended at the Department during that period.”

Kenny explained that visitors who sign the book are mainly those who are attending press events or meetings while visitors attending the Department by prior appointment may contact an office in advance and arrange parking.

Normally, these visitors are met at reception and are not usually asked to sign the visitors book. He also pointed out that his department can be accessed via Leinster House.

The questions were put to him by the Labour TD Kevin Humphreys who asked for a copy of the attendance record book for his department for all of September and specifically the 29 and 30 September.

The government issued the state guarantee of all deposits and liabilities of the banks on 30 September 2008 following a late night Cabinet meeting. The Taoiseach has repeatedly asserted that there is a paucity of documents in his Department related to that period.

Record keeping

However, Fianna Fáil, the party in government at the time, has pointed to a document outlining over a hundred records from that period which it says contradicts Kenny’s claims.

In another answer to a parliamentary question, the Taoiseach revealed how his Department handles documents in light of his statements about the lack of records related to the guarantee.

Kenny told independent TD Stephen Donnelly that his Departmnet complies with the Data Protection, Freedom of Information and National Archives legislation.

“The Department operates a central registry record-keeping system comprising a Registry File Tracking System and a central repository for the storage of all Departmental records,” he explained.

“Files created in the Department are recorded centrally and their location is known, to the time when they are transferred to the National Archives for permanent preservation.”

In answers to all of these PQs related to the bank guarantee, the Taoiseach added: “My Department will co-operate fully with any inquiry established into these matters”.

In another parliamentary question, Kenny revealed the positions of the seven staff still working at his Department who were there when during the bank guarantee.

Read: Did the Taoiseach talk to staff in his department about the bank guarantee?

Fianna Fáil: Claims of no bank guarantee documents are ‘a lie’, and this FOI proves it

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
103 Comments
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute VinHeffer89
    Favourite VinHeffer89
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:02 AM

    If Egan can prove that he applies for five jobs daily then Flanagan, the Department of Social Protection or anyone else for that matter, hasn’t a leg to stand in regard to this question. The arrogance and disconnection from Flanagan is fairly jaw-dropping. I don’t necessarily agree with or endorse Mr Egan’s practices or politics but the man has a right to protest and should not be threatened financially for protesting against governmental policy.

    792
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute VinHeffer89
    Favourite VinHeffer89
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:14 AM

    Actually, I think I’ll tell him how I feel about this myself. I would encourage others to do likewise.
    terence.flanagan@oireachtas.ie

    459
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute KentuckyWindage
    Favourite KentuckyWindage
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:26 AM

    Done.

    172
    See 45 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Maggie Percival-Noone
    Favourite Maggie Percival-Noone
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:54 AM

    Done, I wonder what sanctions will be suggested for those of us who dare to email our objections to his or ” his offices” actions!

    215
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute D
    Favourite D
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:59 AM

    I am surprised if he did apply for five jobs per day for about two years. That’s over 2000 applications.

    81
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc Benway
    Favourite Doc Benway
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:03 AM

    perhaps it is time for all unemployed people to protest this greatest of all Government wastage by holding a protest outside his house, we could all ask him for a job.

    192
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute VinHeffer89
    Favourite VinHeffer89
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:06 AM

    It isn’t that surprising, D. When I was unemployed I was applying for work daily and getting no rely, no response, nothing. Quite a hopeless feeling actually. It’s so much easier to find work when you’re already employed. I’m sorted now, happily working but I understand Mr Egan’s predicament and I resent the pampered likes of Flanagan trying to interfere with his finances. I wonder how well Herr Flanagan would do on €188 a week. Might soften his cough.

    350
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Smith
    Favourite Al Smith
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:10 AM

    Done

    83
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute D
    Favourite D
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:32 AM

    I agree with you.

    54
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stephen murphy
    Favourite Stephen murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:21 AM

    I sent an email, hope he can understand an Irishman’s version of the French language and it wasn’t nice!

    97
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kerry Blake
    Favourite Kerry Blake
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:28 AM

    Is Flanagan still pulling down a TD’s salary after leaving FG after all he is no longer a member of the party he ran to represent….

    102
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stephen murphy
    Favourite Stephen murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:38 AM

    Yes, he’s still a T.D.!

    44
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute VinHeffer89
    Favourite VinHeffer89
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:42 AM

    Yeah, he’s still a TD. He’s also Fine Gael through and though. Sure, he was expelled after voting against their abortion move, the “Long Kick to Touch” as I call it, but make no mistake that Terence Flanagan is as much a Fine Gael man as his fellow “Independent” Michael Lowry is.

    109
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tina Murphy
    Favourite Tina Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:42 AM

    Vin Heffer, thank you for posting the email address – I have emailed the following to him

    Dear Mr Flanagan,

    I have just read the article in The Journal online. I am shocked and very angry that you would even think to table a question that would challenge the right of unemployed and poor people to practice their Constitutional and Democratic right to protest! The implication of that is astounding in that you are seeking to separate the rights of the wealthy from the rights of the poor.

    I don’t care who wrote the question, and I don’t care if it was other Irish people who suggested it, it is YOUR responsibility to behave like a democratically elected TD not a tyrant doing the bidding of a few. How dare you even believe you can abdicate your responsibility in this issue! If ‘some’ of your constituents suggested taking the vote from the poor would you table that question too?

    I hope you take the time to read this email and to think about your behaviour and what you are doing to democracy under the guise of ‘it’s not me, I was just following orders’…. we all know how THAT defence ended 70 years ago!

    243
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ross Casey
    Favourite Ross Casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:55 AM

    @ Tina – genuine question – what is the article in the Constitution that gives a right to protest?

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:16 PM

    not unusual for job seekers to do that

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:18 PM

    As much as Michael lowry is, you’re havig a laugh VinHeffer, this is the same man that supported the FF/Green party puppet coalition in the last government, yeah real fine gael like.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Neal Ireland Hello
    Favourite Neal Ireland Hello
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:20 PM

    He has a right to protest, but jobseeking should be his full time occupation at the moment, and his protesting should be done in his spare time, just like it would be if he was working.

    22
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute VinHeffer89
    Favourite VinHeffer89
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:35 PM

    @ Doc: Michael Lowry currently supports this government also. As a proven charlatan and tax evader through the Moriarty Tribunal it shouldn’t come as a surprise that he would be capable of acting in his own interests then and now. Politically, he is as Fine Gael as Fine Gael goes in all but name. Same as Flanagan.

    @Neal: If he applies for a job a few times a day I’d say he’s fulfilling his commitment to the Department of Social Protection’s terms and conditions for receiving social welfare. Heaven forbid, he might feel strongly about the issue.

    76
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian Rochford
    Favourite Brian Rochford
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:42 PM

    Done , as follows

    “Democratic protest now to cost a citizen SW entitlement ?

    Please take to the airwaves with this Deputy.

    would love to see you head to head with VB on that one.”

    I cc’d it to my local blueshirt too

    regina.doherty@oir.ie

    “Would love to know if you support your fellow deputy in this action.

    Is the right to protest subject to the withdrawal of SW entitlements now – in your view too? “

    85
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute No Mauvaise Foi
    Favourite No Mauvaise Foi
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:48 PM

    Good idea VinHeffer89.

    Dear TD Flanagan,
    I must say I was disgusted to read this article <>.
    Whether or not you or your office tabled the query, they represent you and at the end of the day: the buck stops with you. To not be fully involved implies a loss of control at your office and who is running it.

    If true it bodes poorly for the future of a democratic and just nation. To punish protestors with punishment and sanctions such as seen in Putin’s Russia (ie jailing of gay rights and religious rights protestors) evinces a sad state of affairs in Ireland. The govt may be unhappy with the will of the people at the moment which results in protest but you need to accept that this behaviour is appropriate in a just and fair democracy. Sanctioning people for choosing the right to peacefully protest is to turn our society into a dictatorship or secret and non-secret police state where people are afraid to speak their minds for fear of informants and sanctions.

    I hope you will take the time to think more fully about your words, actions, choices and positions in relation to sanctioning peaceful protest and perhaps take some time to research the history of states that carried out this kind of behaviour. And then perhaps ask yourself if this is the society you wish to live in and therefore perhaps reconsider your position accordingly. I wish you all the best in your journey to represent your constituents to their best interests and a just society.

    Many thanks.

    71
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Derek Durkin
    Favourite Derek Durkin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:49 PM

    Wouldn’t say he gets €188 a week, probably more like €100.

    21
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:57 PM

    Kerry – FG , imagine, weren’t Rightwing and Fascist Catholic enough for him

    45
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:59 PM

    Doc – Lowry is FG to the core and as crooked as FG are too !

    52
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute No Mauvaise Foi
    Favourite No Mauvaise Foi
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:02 PM

    @RossCasey Protections of protest in Irish Constitution:
    Article 40.6.1° The State guarantees liberty for the exercise of the following rights, subject to public order and morality:
    ii: The right of the citizens to assemble peaceably and without arms. Provision may be made by law to prevent or control meetings which are determined in accordance with law to be calculated to cause a breach of the peace or to be a danger or nuisance to the general public and to prevent or control meetings in the vicinity of either House of the Oireachtas. iii. The right of the citizens to form associations and unions. Laws, however, may be enacted for the regulation and control in the public interest of the exercise of the foregoing right.

    & Article 40.6.2° Laws regulating the manner in which the right of forming associations and unions and the right of free assembly may be exercised shall contain no political, religious or class discrimination.

    This may actually qualify as class discrimination.
    More here: http://archive.constitution.ie/reports/ConstitutionofIreland.pdf

    68
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:21 PM

    Ciarraioch, that’s just populist and simplistic, name me one FG TD that is crooked or else get off the pot.

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Pedro
    Favourite Pedro
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:23 PM

    I personally can’t stand Egan and would also question his drive to actually get a job (and that’s any job – not just one he would prefer). I respect that everyone has a right to protest but I do question when people become almost occupational protesters – it’s the water meters now, before that he was a youth defense supporter (who I particularly dislike) during the pro life campaign, before that it was occupy dame street… Furthermore, many of his comments that I have read seem to bring in the fact that he is a gay man and such discriminated against.

    Maybe he really is trying his hardest to get work, I can’t be sure. However from what I’ve seen of him over the last two years I get the impression that he feels the world owes him something and because this something hasn’t been easily provided to him, is now more interested in aligning himself with whatever campaign is currently “fighting the man” than actually trying to obtain that something himself.

    21
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:30 PM

    @ Ross The right comes with living in a democracy, but you, like Flangan wouldn’t know what that means.

    42
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:40 PM

    @ Pedro His personal life and your personal prejudice against him has nothing to do with this article. It doesn’t matter if he has supported 100 causes and protested for them. You sound like a small minded little guttersnipe coming out with your personal resentment in an attempt to justify the cowardly actions of a vindictive TD.

    102
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute TifFanny Bush
    Favourite TifFanny Bush
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:44 PM

    Some serious research done there,Pedro ..

    30
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aidan J. Ffrench
    Favourite Aidan J. Ffrench
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:52 PM

    Just send this email. Please flood him with messages – we need to ‘put manners’ on this type of traitor to the principles of a democratic republic. Shame on his cowardice in hiding behind ‘his office’
    Dear Mr Flanagan,

    I have just read the article in The Journal online. I am furious at your sanctimonious and condescending behaviour. That you would even think to table a question – and YOU DID TABLE IT (despite your semantics!); that would challenge the right of unemployed and poor people to practice their Constitutional and Democratic right to protest in whatever peaceful manner they choose!

    The implication of that is astounding in that you are seeking to separate the rights of the wealthy from the rights of the poor. But then, when should I be surprised when both Fine Gael and the so-called Reform Alliance are obsessed with the ‘market’ and are addicted to the evidently failed orthodox model of neoliberalism.

    It is YOUR responsibility to behave like in a democratic, transparent manner, as an elected TD AND NOT LIKE A TYRANT doing the bidding of a few in such a sneaky, cowardly way!. How dare you even believe you can abdicate your responsibility in this issue! If ‘some’ of your constituents suggested taking the vote from the poor would you table that question too?

    59
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aidan J. Ffrench
    Favourite Aidan J. Ffrench
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:09 PM

    Michael Lowry

    13
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Pedro
    Favourite Pedro
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:12 PM

    Sorry Dave but my comment is very relevant – as I mentioned, I agree with the TD and would question how active Egan is searching for employment. It appears to me that Egan has adopted the role of professional protester over anything else.

    Maybe you should read the article again…

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Anton
    Favourite Anton
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:30 PM

    Well apparently Rabbitte’s big concern is online bullying of TDs, so he’ll probably try to have the Journal closed down, Maggie.

    38
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:43 PM

    Yes Aiden you are correct but he was expelled from the party, I am talking about the present FG party of which he is not a member of, name one.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Daisy Chainsaw
    Favourite Daisy Chainsaw
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:06 PM

    Maggie, he’ll probably demand wages be cut because if we have time to write emails to him, then obviously we’re not working hard enough.

    31
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Donal Ring
    Favourite Donal Ring
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:20 PM

    Article 40.6.1° (peaceful assembly) for one , there may be others

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Long
    Favourite John Long
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:43 PM

    @Doc – easy! Alan Shatter

    20
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Anthony Reilly
    Favourite Anthony Reilly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:56 PM

    It can be found in Article 40 of The Irish Constitution. The Bottom line is this :
    You and I have the fundamental right to:
    Free movement and passage, Personal privacy and bodily integrity and the right to protest.
    These are fundamental Human Rights of International Law
    as well as fundamental rights provided by the Irish Constitution,
    which is the foundation of all Irish Law.

    27
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Peadar O'Ruadhán
    Favourite Peadar O'Ruadhán
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:13 PM

    Article 6.1.i
    The right of the citizens to express freely their convictions and opinions.

    Art. 6.1.iii
    (iii)The right of the citizens to assemble peaceably and without arms.

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:16 PM

    @ john long, alan shatter, crooked at what ?

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul O'Reilly
    Favourite Paul O'Reilly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:11 PM

    Well said sir!! Your true colours are shining through. This is a typical example of Fine Gael in action! No democracy here!! Is the entire Finished Gael party composed of morons, or what? And who voted for them? Do you support this type of despotism? Or will you have the courage, for a change, to throw them out, finally.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian Meleady
    Favourite Brian Meleady
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:49 PM

    Also done.

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Maria
    Favourite Maria
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 7:37 AM

    Pedro: don’t you think the man has been slandered enough already through the tabling of this PQ? You seem to have a lot of information on him. I hope you don’t work for Terence Flanagan? .

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Barbara Franzoni
    Favourite Barbara Franzoni
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 5:48 PM

    Is it true that once a TD leaves a party that they then start to receive an extra top-up payment called a “leaders allowance” which is an extra payment for printing, admin, etc., that is normally allocated to the leader of any party but also given to independents?

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute An BhFionnuisce
    Favourite An BhFionnuisce
    Report
    Jul 3rd 2014, 12:51 AM

    Actually, his Payment is €40, a Week, minus Medical Card, Possible Travel Pass, Rent Allowance, if he gets it, and so on. I know him, and can confirm that he’s out, defending, and supporting those who are against Water Charges.

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Smith
    Favourite Jack Smith
    Report
    Jul 30th 2014, 7:23 AM

    This is not a surprise. The people who control the money control how it is distributed. That they keep some for themselves, some describe as human nature; I call greed and selfishness.

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Norman Campbell
    Favourite Norman Campbell
    Report
    Mar 14th 2015, 12:10 AM

    Well spotted, a ringer, system man to the core. Also one from the same stable in DDI.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Frank Dwyer
    Favourite Frank Dwyer
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:54 AM

    Will his Dail salary be cut until he starts representing his constituents

    748
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute neeneee
    Favourite neeneee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:18 AM

    Why are people on the dole protesting against these charges?after all they don’t pay them.its eejits like me out working 6days a week paying it for them with my taxes

    310
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute james cullen
    Favourite james cullen
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:21 AM

    He won’t have a dail salary after 2016 so we won’t worry about him any more

    307
    See 24 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute David Murphy
    Favourite David Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:24 AM

    Maybe he doesn’t plan to be on the dole for the rest of life? Maybe he isn’t a completely self centred person? Maybe he feels strongly about it?

    368
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Martin Ryan
    Favourite Martin Ryan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:29 AM

    Do you think it’s only people who are on the dole who protest? I’m lucky in the sense I’ve never needed to be on the dole but I sure as hell will be protesting when it comes time for IW to install a meter at my property.

    354
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimbo Murphy
    Favourite Jimbo Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:42 AM

    It says he became unemployed 2 years ago, so obviously he has worked.

    256
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Stafford
    Favourite John Stafford
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:14 AM

    I am employed and when I can I attend such protests. I commend Mark Egan for going out there and making a stand will others stand behind an egg neenee. He has huge support and is a citizen of this country.

    223
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jim Hartnett
    Favourite Jim Hartnett
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:29 AM

    But he will have a Dáil pension unlike Mr. Egan who will still have his €188. That is whats wrong with the system. Spend five years in the Dáil, get a pension for life. If this happened in a tin pot African Republic we would be crowing about how our money is being wasted.

    173
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Liberté et Egalité
    Favourite Liberté et Egalité
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:32 AM

    Remember the name NOT to vote for: Terence Flanagan!!!

    164
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute melweiser
    Favourite melweiser
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:37 AM

    &neeneee People on the dole have to pay the property tax, bin charges, TV license and all the household bills such as electricity and gas. They will be paying water charges too.

    162
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stephen murphy
    Favourite Stephen murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:00 AM

    I notice, the commentators like NeeNee. Haven’t the backbone, to show their face and hide their I.D.? When they knock, their own and not stand with them against all these stealth taxes. The man did work, lost his job and obviously trying to get another. Only for your taxes, the country would go under, NeeNee!

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Joe Geoghegan
    Favourite Joe Geoghegan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:05 AM

    Let me give you a clue to why anyone would protest against Irish Water. Because it is a right! Because Irish Water is a private company who have been ‘awarded’ our water to sell to us!. Because Irish water are bullies! Because Irish Water are overpaid retired ex public servants who have ripped us off and continue to do so now, with government backing! and on and on and on…….
    PS People on the dole are not exempt from water charges!

    186
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave O'Hanlon
    Favourite Dave O'Hanlon
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:15 AM

    @neenee. You seem to think that having a job means you have to be completely whipped as well.

    70
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stephen murphy
    Favourite Stephen murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:40 AM

    NeeNee is an EEjit, probably votes for the likes of that guy also?

    70
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:00 PM

    of course sure people on the dole have no worth in your eyes… sure they are on the dole cos they are lazy and has nothing to do with the fact that there is and has been a deep reccesion for six years

    72
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gerry Daly
    Favourite Gerry Daly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:03 PM

    Neenee must have overshot shot the alphabet by one letter when he set up his profile. He obviously meant to type an ‘M’ not an ‘N’

    46
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Yvonne Ward Garrigan
    Favourite Yvonne Ward Garrigan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:07 PM

    The government know that most working people cannot spare the time to protest against their draconian measures as they’re too busy trying to earn a living and keep their heads above water. What Mr Egan and other unemployed people who are using some of their time to protest are doing is going some way to redressing the unfortunate “I’m all right, Jack” way of thinking that has become pervasive in Irish society. Yes, he may not be liable for water charges now but if he does become employed in the near future (which hopefully he will) then he will be liable. And why isn’t the complainant named? What happened to the right to face your accuser? The Department of Social Warfare has created a snitch ethos turning people against their less fortunate neighbours. Shame, shame, shame.

    92
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Darren Ennis
    Favourite Darren Ennis
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:31 PM

    He will be liable, EVERYONE has to pay water tax

    45
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Carole Watson Purcell
    Favourite Carole Watson Purcell
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:42 PM

    Neeneee with the egg (brain) people who are unemployed still have to pay for their utility bills ie.water,gas ESB.Unemployed people also pay tax eg VAT,road tax etc etc.Only one part of your comment is correct…that you are an eejit.

    62
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Florence Nightingale
    Favourite Florence Nightingale
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:05 PM

    @neenee

    Um…. yes, they do. Just like people on the dole also have to pay property tax. There is no dispensation.

    And for the record, you pay the same amount of tax regardless of where it goes. That will never change. Even if it’s all earmarked for roads and healthcare. You will still pay the same amount.

    This country is in the toilet not because of those who are unemployed but because of shoddy government policy, lack of proper taxation on big companies, and companies/businesses/multinationals who are desperate for as much profit as possible at any cost (ie cutting jobs to increase profit).

    Direct your anger towards the people who deserve it.

    50
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute No Mauvaise Foi
    Favourite No Mauvaise Foi
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:53 PM

    I applaud Mr Egan also. I appreciate it when citizens take their time to stand up to injustice and protest something that affects all for us, especially when I cannot. Don’t let yourselves be manipulated by the rich to hate the less well off and call them scroungers. #Solidarity #ClassWars #CivilRights

    52
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Laurence Vize
    Favourite Laurence Vize
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:03 PM

    HI is liable for water charges! NOW.

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Anthony Reilly
    Favourite Anthony Reilly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:17 PM

    @ Martin Ryan. Well said Martin, but to be effective, you need to fight them as a community.
    Check out Clondalkin Meter Watch on FaceBook. That’s how to do it.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Peadar O'Ruadhán
    Favourite Peadar O'Ruadhán
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:17 PM

    If we let these charges go though the whole country will be eejits, paying the likes of Denis O’Brien billions what is a basic human right, the access to clean drinking water.

    22
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute GF
    Favourite GF
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 3:32 AM

    because they are citizens of the state and entitled to their say.
    the overwhelming majority want to get off the dole into employment as quickly as possible. most of us working have been there. i’m sure you know the difference between living on the dole and a wage. not what it should be – agreed – but that’s low wages in relation to cost of living surely, not a conspiracy of the poor?

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:32 AM

    @neeneee People on the dole will have to pay them. How about informing yourself before allowing your knee to jerk?

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute June Kennedy
    Favourite June Kennedy
    Report
    Jan 2nd 2015, 1:18 PM

    Those on dole also pay vat on purchases and services 2% of which is their water contribution.

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mike Mccarthy
    Favourite Mike Mccarthy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:16 AM

    I feel sorry for people who wasted their vote on that Tit.

    623
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Briny Boy
    Favourite Briny Boy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:41 AM

    Why feel sorry for them? They knew exactly what they were getting. If anyone voted for that clown they’re long past the point of no return.

    362
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stephen murphy
    Favourite Stephen murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:40 AM

    Is he related to Charlie Flanagan, Minister for kids?

    82
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Richard Collumb
    Favourite Richard Collumb
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:12 AM

    No

    21
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ranges Rick O Shea
    Favourite Ranges Rick O Shea
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:20 AM

    Loving it ha ha ha …………………..just wondering would he seek to have Pensions or salary cut of politicians cut who were convicted of fraud or theft ?? . He looks the type of Guy who was born with a silver Foot in his mouth ha ha ha

    454
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Stephen murphy
    Favourite Stephen murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:19 AM

    Lucinda’s?

    90
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute justin casey
    Favourite justin casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:53 PM

    all these blueshirts a repulsive in the extreme.. they think they are our royal family or something.. they should be booted out of this country from treason, have their citizenship revolked and passports taken, assents seized, and they can tell their masters in germany how the merely abdicated,,,

    123
    See 2 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Oonagh Donnelly
    Favourite Oonagh Donnelly
    Report
    Mar 14th 2015, 11:56 AM

    Old school. A golden boy.

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Pádraig Ó Diolún
    Favourite Pádraig Ó Diolún
    Report
    Mar 14th 2015, 1:31 PM

    And what the wages of politicians who don’t turn up for Dáil votes?

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Enda Nolan
    Favourite Enda Nolan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:03 AM

    How dare the peasants protest when they should be looking for a slave job on scam bridge

    389
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Fonso
    Favourite Al Fonso
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:15 AM

    You think you are joking but they seriously think that.

    208
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Enda Nolan
    Favourite Enda Nolan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:19 AM

    No al I m not joking , that’s what’s sicking about this fg / lab government

    166
    See 4 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:21 PM

    Can’t wait for SF in government, the panacea to all our problems.

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Enda Nolan
    Favourite Enda Nolan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:32 PM

    Glad to see you finally saw sense doc

    22
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Rob Mackey
    Favourite Rob Mackey
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 8:44 PM

    Better than whats there doc… Better the devil you know rather than the one you dont !

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 10:48 PM

    The problem is Rob, we don’t know what SF will do, I hope you like poker, because that’s what it’s going to be like, would you feel confident of them calling some ones bluff, I wouldn’t.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute GATHERINGYOURMONEY14
    Favourite GATHERINGYOURMONEY14
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:02 AM

    What next?

    “Don’t protest about corrupt politicians that forced a million people onto the dole/into emigration”
    “Or weal take your dole away”

    This stinks of Magdelane politics.

    311
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:58 AM

    The Old tradition of Fascism always rises to the top, when it comes to a Blueshirt type, like Flanagan.
    Shocking misuse of The Dáil and abuse of a Citizen , out of work , mainly through the mishandling of the economy by The Coalition of FG/Lab.
    Have these people any conscience or shame ?

    280
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:28 PM

    So says a member of a party of shame and just for the record i’m not condoning flanagans actions and further for your information, he is no longer a Blueshirt, he is part of that reform part, please keep up to date, I know ye like living in the past.

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:55 PM

    Doc – You regularly blog as to how proud you are of your Fascist Blueshirt Party and their Nazi like past !
    Presumably , you are also very proud , no doubt of what Flanagans methods are !

    43
    See 13 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:38 PM

    A point of order Ciarraioch, There is nothing more despicable than another making blatant false accusations or in lay mans terms, lies, it is a sleveen and a underhand like act, just typical of the party you represent , I have never blogged about being proud of fascism, I have come on here to argue that FG are not a fascist party and that I despise fascism and regarding their NAZI like past again perhaps you should peruse my previous posts and re: Flanagan read my posts above.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:17 PM

    Doc – Read mine again a chara , mas e do thoil e ?
    I maintain that you support a Fascist Party – the fact that you speak in favour of FG and their gross attempt at awful leadership of this Country !
    Whether you personally are a Fascist is for your own conscience to answer !

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jurgen Remak
    Favourite Jurgen Remak
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:26 PM

    Ah Carroch, referencing the Nazis again in the context of Irish history and politics. I hope you will also take time to criticize the IRA and their collaboration with the Nazis. But I suppose it’s ok for the IRA to collaborate with the Nazis, but not the blueshirts.

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:01 PM

    Ciarraioch you can argue euphemistically all you want but I and others know what you ment to sully, i’ll give you the liberal populist monikers of the adjectives you use to describe FG but you then went on and posted “and their Nazi like past ! “, that is a blatent lie a chara and you know it.

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Anthony Reilly
    Favourite Anthony Reilly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:55 PM

    @Doc @Jurgen Remak @ Ciarraioch. Nazis, Blueshirts, the IRA, What the f**k are you guys talking about? I hope you would agree, at least to some degree, that the people of this country (including you guys) would be best served if we adjusted our attitudes to look to the future rather than the past.

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jurgen Remak
    Favourite Jurgen Remak
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 6:05 PM

    Tony, I completely agree. But referencing Fascism, Nazism is seriously innappropriate both for this article and because it comes from a guy like Carroch.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 6:10 PM

    Jurgen – Are you still trying to peddle that lie ? You are watching too many poor British movies !

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 6:12 PM

    Doc – Facts are Facts – They had the Nazi Salute and all, your Blueshirt Boys in FG / Cumann Na nGael !

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 6:13 PM

    Anthony – Hard to go foreword with Fascists like Flanagan TD , about !

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 7:17 PM

    Ciarraioch, you are still ignoring the premise of my posts.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:42 AM

    Given that one of the fundamental economic principles of fascism is the privatisation of corporate profit and the socialisation of corporate loss, I would contend that any party that was in any way involved in the pilfering the wallets of the Irish people to further enrich those who already have enough wealth to last many lifetimes is fascist. A true capitalist would have let these “too big to fail” parasitical organisations (banks) just die a natural and long overdue death.

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 12:22 PM

    So therefore FF/ green party/independents/FG/labour are by virtue of your argument all fascist, so we have being living in a fascist state since the inception of independence which leaves the shinnerbots as the only pure anathema to fascism in this state, they the political wing of an organisation who orchestrated kangaroo courts in this state and murdered innocent servants of this state and robbed the so said evil banks of this state, will you ever go back to sleep for gods sake, you’re making a complete fool of yourself.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jul 3rd 2014, 1:20 AM

    Its anti Sinn Fein people like you that like living in the past …. by the way ur having a laugh putting up Michael Collins picture

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave O'Keeffe
    Favourite Dave O'Keeffe
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:05 AM

    St Patrick clearly left a few snakes behind

    219
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute KentuckyWindage
    Favourite KentuckyWindage
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:07 AM

    I’ll bet this little weasel was teachers pet back when he was in school.
    The lickarse head on the little boll|x.

    211
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Harry byrne
    Favourite Harry byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:22 AM

    “”the lickarse head on the little bollix”..hahahahaha….

    113
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute alwaysrightokay
    Favourite alwaysrightokay
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:46 AM

    I hope the people in Dublin north east have the sense not to vote for this bollocks again.

    210
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute gerbreen
    Favourite gerbreen
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:13 AM

    Probably another one who got in more from the FF protest vote. He like a few others will be 1 term. But will keep the free parking for life of course.

    Blaming the office is ridiculous. He selects from the many queries.

    98
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimbo Murphy
    Favourite Jimbo Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:52 AM

    There is no requirement on social welfare to spend 24 hours a day looking for a job. Furthermore there is now a thing called the internet which allows an individual to look for work from home or anywhere they want on their mobile telephone. Maybe somebody should let the TD, or his office, know.

    186
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Nicola Monaghan
    Favourite Nicola Monaghan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:19 AM

    Where exactly is Mr Egan supposed to be all day looking for a job? I trawl the job sites every single day and apply for any jobs I have even a sniff at. Does it mean coz I haven’t gotten a job yet I shouldn’t leave the house?!

    179
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paddy Hannigan
    Favourite Paddy Hannigan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:54 AM

    Exactly Nicola. This kinda crap could get to the point where anyone found saying ‘bad things’ on The Journal about the government could also have their social welfare cut.

    99
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Shakka1244
    Favourite Shakka1244
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:55 AM

    Don’t EVER question our betters

    161
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gus Sheridan
    Favourite Gus Sheridan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:55 AM

    Big Brother……………

    152
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:05 PM

    big bully no doubt

    26
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Snorre Sturleson
    Favourite Snorre Sturleson
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:55 AM

    What a nasty vindictive little person…..using his membership of the Dail to attack a citizen!

    150
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aaron B
    Favourite Aaron B
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:19 AM

    I can bet you he wouldn’t walk up and say it to Mr.Egan face to face! Unless of course he us flanked be two Garda or security personnel. Little weasel!

    87
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Shane Mullally
    Favourite Shane Mullally
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:19 AM

    Sickening behaviour,considering this government cut welfare payments in line with their pals at the IMF!…citizens of this country have a right to peaceful protest,whatever way,or whomever against…or has mr Egan got to furnish welfare dept a timesheet for his protest?…

    143
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute johngahan
    Favourite johngahan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:14 AM

    ‘Professional Protestor Activities’ … if it can be proven that the individual was getting paid to protest, then clearly he has a case to answer.

    Otherwise, no matter how inane the cause, everyone has the right to peaceful protest that doesn’t affect any other individual’s rights.

    131
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jackie Fetherston
    Favourite Jackie Fetherston
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:16 AM

    Who voted that gobshits in dose he not think his no good fg party have taken enough of the people in this country and now they are cutting the amount of water we get pre child we need to stand up to this so called government and pull them down we need a general election soon

    130
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Andy Kane
    Favourite Andy Kane
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:32 AM

    I feel sick after reading this . this country needs south American politics and south American solutions to politicians
    .
    asap

    127
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Marcus O'Connor
    Favourite Marcus O'Connor
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:04 PM

    Emmm assassination and kidnapping or just general corruption and cronyism? I guess the two former options would definitely be a fun solution to the latter ones, would definitely spice things up around the place which would be entertaining at least. Though I think SF would have an unfair headstart on the requirement for each party to have their own personal paramilitary wing..

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Shakka1244
    Favourite Shakka1244
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:00 AM

    Lets all sit back and do whatever it takes to keep the gravy train rolling eh

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:04 AM

    Flanaghan, a nasty vindictive parasite, a cowardly spineless excuse for a man.

    117
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute anthony byrne
    Favourite anthony byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:34 AM

    This individual had a salary of 87,258 euro plus expenses of 2.445.83 euro per month last year, his expenses alone amounted to 29,349.96 for the year, the sheer arrogance and brass neck of this character is astounding..

    110
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Fiona O'Sullivan
    Favourite Fiona O'Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:13 AM

    People on Social Welfare have to pay this tax too. There is no waiver scheme, there is no allowance, save the allowance for children and it’s coming out now that even that is being reduced. Old Age Pensioners, already struggling on their measly pension, have to pay. So why should they not have a right to protest against it? The majority of people on social welfare at the minute do not want to be on it. They lost their jobs through no fault of their own. The typical “all social welfare recipients are scrounging hippies” comes out because they dare to protest? This is coming from people who austerity hasn’t affected – yet. Anyone could lose their job in the morning, and then the attitude might change. This is intimidating and scaremongering from the Dail – keep protesting and we’ll cut your dole – and it shows that the protests are actually worrying them. More people are resisting and we can’t have that.

    109
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kevo Riordan
    Favourite Kevo Riordan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:48 AM

    I think this TD should be Concentrate more on helping the people that voted him in & to do the job he said he would do before got he got Elected! not Target people for questioneing his wrong doing in Government. I would also like to add Mr Egan has applied for job with my company Recently and was unsuccessful.

    102
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:59 AM

    He is, he is protecting the tax payers who pay his wages by ensuring that the taxes paid by the working people are going to people who legitimately are entitled to them.

    21
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:03 PM

    and u know for a fact that this man is not entitled to them as you infer ? by the way there is not a requirement to be a taxpayer to vote

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute johngahan
    Favourite johngahan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:43 AM

    Egan should sue: he has been accused of being a ‘professional protestor’ – i.e. he is being paid to do so.

    Hopefully one of the groups who are outraged by this story come to his assistance and get his case to court.

    86
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jim Hartnett
    Favourite Jim Hartnett
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:37 AM

    He did it in the Dáil where privilege would apply, I assume. He wouldn’t dare do it anywhere else.

    47
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick
    Favourite Patrick
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:48 AM

    He should sue. It’s defamation of character . Plus Flanagan has invaded his privacy . The only problem is the taxpayer would foot the bill.

    41
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:44 AM

    Correct, Jim, he (mis)used parliamentary privilege and so can not be on the receiving end of a lawsuit. The same can’t be said of anyone posting here who restates in their own words what he said.

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Meehan
    Favourite Paul Meehan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:09 AM

    Low life that’s all that thing is.

    80
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Derek Byrne
    Favourite Derek Byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:29 PM

    i am a part of Dublin says no and i am a friend of Mark Egan.I am lucky enough to have a job and don`t look down on those that do not have a job unlike Terence. I have met both Terence and Mark as we all live locally. Mark is a good decent individual that loves this country. Terence is a self centred egotist and loves what he can get out of this country. Below is a break down in what Terence gets and Mark gets. Notice the difference. We have the Rich attacking the poor.

    Terence Flanagan T.D. your salary of €87,258 + Your expenses of€29,349.96 = €116,607.96
    Meaning you cost the state or Taxpayer €116,607.96 a year but the true cost of a TD to the state/ taxpayer is €309,912 a year when all entitlements are taken into consideration

    Now Mark Egan gets €40 a week or €2,080 a year and you have the neck to contact to SNITCH to the Social welfare that he is out protesting against the Government ?

    Terence if we got rid of you, at these rates €116,607.96 divided by €2,080 we could pay Mark for the next 56 years. Which would be a better investment

    I see above someone posted Terence Email Address. I would ask you all to send Terence an email as this attack on the poor and an attack on someones constitutional right is deplorable.

    Terence if you are reading this OLD MALAHIDE ROAD PICKET coming soon !

    76
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Wooldridge
    Favourite John Wooldridge
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:05 AM

    So a question was raised in the Dail by a parasite of the highest order.

    76
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Darren Ennis
    Favourite Darren Ennis
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:37 AM

    What an absolute dirt bag. Acting like a little child! Goes to show how ANTI people these pr*cks are.

    67
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Neal Ireland Hello
    Favourite Neal Ireland Hello
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:13 AM

    It’s one thing to protest, it’s another thing to protest all day every day and do nothing else.

    61
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Florence Nightingale
    Favourite Florence Nightingale
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:10 PM

    @Neal

    And how do you know they are protesting all day and doing nothing else?

    Don’t believe the hype.

    20
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Fanshawe
    Favourite Paul Fanshawe
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:44 AM

    There’s a right Blueshirt for you now.

    60
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean Collins
    Favourite Sean Collins
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:54 AM

    Hear hear

    36
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:24 PM

    Paul it may have escaped your attention, a blueshirt no more is he, he is now a reformer didn’t you hear.

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ross Casey
    Favourite Ross Casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:04 AM

    People need to just stop these ridiculous protests.

    Especially professional protesters who turn up at everything.

    Just look at the damage to how Ireland is viewed internationally by those Shell to Sea “protesters”.

    59
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Charles
    Favourite Charles
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:06 AM

    ‘Damage to how Ireland is viewed internationally’
    Would you ever cop yourself on a bit?

    222
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ross Casey
    Favourite Ross Casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:09 AM

    International corporations seeing progress hampered by a crowd of hippies and bumpkins. Who needs to cop on?

    41
    See 30 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mike Clinton
    Favourite Mike Clinton
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:14 AM

    Ross, you are taking the urine here aren’t you ??.
    This (and the last) shower of lieing parasites are riding roughshod over the people of this country and showing nothing but contempt for us as they openly practice their “cronyism” politics.
    Would you rather we just roll over and accept what happens.
    As for this TD… Well, he will be begging for votes very soon and hopefully he will get a taste of being unemployed.

    173
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute KentuckyWindage
    Favourite KentuckyWindage
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:14 AM

    Ross, the rot seems to have sunk into the marrow of your bones.
    You are truly lost to have made a comment like that.

    127
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ross Casey
    Favourite Ross Casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:17 AM

    I know my comments will not be popular. But then sometimes the truth is hard to hear.
    These protests are a waste of time.
    If these people directed their energy into a real cause then they might actually make a difference.
    At the moment they’re just a step away from ruffians.

    37
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave O'Keeffe
    Favourite Dave O'Keeffe
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:22 AM

    Regardless of your opinion it is their right to do so and for him to be singled out in this manner is morally wrong.

    122
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute richard fennessy
    Favourite richard fennessy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:24 AM

    Ross u need to cop on.if we don’t have the right to protest we would be like n korea

    106
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute KentuckyWindage
    Favourite KentuckyWindage
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:31 AM

    ‘Ruffians’ Ross???
    How is life back in the Victorian era?
    Next you’ll be suggesting transportation for any who may dare to look askance at their social superiors.

    105
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Richard Sweeney
    Favourite Richard Sweeney
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:32 AM

    Bumpkins and ruffians! Curtain twitcher

    84
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Andy Kane
    Favourite Andy Kane
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:34 AM

    ruffians ? take your head out of your hole for god sake .

    83
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:36 AM

    Ross – Can you describe to us – what is “a real cause ” – to quote you ?

    77
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Bowden
    Favourite Jack Bowden
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:41 AM

    Totally agree that “Shell to sea” protesters have done huge damage to our country. We will definitely not see any oil and gas finds in Ireland in the near future as the exploration companies have pulled out and gone elsewhere.

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Shane Mullally
    Favourite Shane Mullally
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:46 AM

    Or sell our souls to the devil via the IMF!!…

    49
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimbo Murphy
    Favourite Jimbo Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:47 AM

    So the blueshirts want to take away our right to protest now.

    67
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Harry byrne
    Favourite Harry byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:50 AM

    “The truth is hard to hear”…No the absolute shite you came out with there is hard to read..

    62
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Bowden
    Favourite Jack Bowden
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:50 AM

    There’s nothing wrong with protesting.
    Also, the government does not owe you anything.

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ross Casey
    Favourite Ross Casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:54 AM

    @”Kerryman” – a real cause is one where people actually fight for something they believe in and have a goal in sight.

    Not like these water meter protesters who do nothing but cause trouble and “protest” for the sake of it, get their photos in local rags and go on trash radio talk shows.

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:09 AM

    @ Ross Just look at the damage spineless politicians like Flanagan have done to this country and the ordinary people living here. It is getting close to the stage that politicians will have more to worry about than protesters. There is no excuse for what this gutless parasite has done.

    65
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mike Clinton
    Favourite Mike Clinton
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:11 AM

    Ross, it’s “wannabe”snobs like you that have us where we are and allow these eurocrats to dictate.
    You are among the NIMBY’s and the bull**** blinded “I’m alright Jack’s” that couldn’t give a damm what goes on outside their own little world.
    Well buddy, you should get your head out of your backside and smell some fresh air because those people that are out protesting now could be the very ones that will stand beside you when your rights are violated.

    81
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc Benway
    Favourite Doc Benway
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:13 AM

    welease the wuffians woss!

    49
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aaron O Connor
    Favourite Aaron O Connor
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:16 AM

    “protest” for the sake of it”

    what are you talking about? are you a water meter installer by any chance?

    63
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute The Doctor
    Favourite The Doctor
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:21 AM

    The country is full of “Ross casey’s”. It why we will always be screwed.

    68
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Smith
    Favourite Al Smith
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:21 AM

    If there was enough oil and gas here a few rowdy protesters would not stop those companies getting to it… Look at US in middle east for example.

    39
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Smith
    Favourite Al Smith
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:22 AM

    What makes you believe these protesters don’t believe in this cause?

    41
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ciarraioch
    Favourite Ciarraioch
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:31 AM

    Ross –
    Confused – I don’t know what you mean Ross – You appear to advocate violence and “Fighting” ?

    Isn’t peaceful protest a lot better then fighting ?

    You appear to be a very confused Blueshirt type !

    45
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:42 AM

    I agree with you Ross. It’s also interesting how few of the keyboard warriors on The Journal attend any of these protests they so strongly support. Cut off dole for these professional protesters and wasters. Stop enabling them.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:35 AM

    Wonder what Dane Tyghe / Dobson/Vincent / Gihooly Touchy etc etc would make of this ? oh wait !

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ross Casey
    Favourite Ross Casey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:59 AM

    @”Kerryman” – are you seriously trying to say that the water meter protests and Shell to Sea protests are/were peaceful?
    Did you not see members of An Garda Siochana having to haul thugs off the road re Shell?
    Did you not see troublemakers obstructing Irish Water workers by actually getting into the holes dug for the meters?

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Joe Geoghegan
    Favourite Joe Geoghegan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:04 PM

    Ross, what would you consider ‘a real cause that might actually make a difference’?

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Carole Watson Purcell
    Favourite Carole Watson Purcell
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:13 PM

    Ross Casey..”a crowd of hippies and bumpkins ” !!! Excuse me but I protest against this government bringing us to our knees with the severe austerity measures forced upon us because they put the unsecured bondholders and corrupt bankers before the people of Ireland because it has not only affected all of my family but my childrens future.Who will probably have to go to the other side of the planet to look for work.I am not a hippie or a bumpkin,but a 54yr old hard working mother who wants my children to be allowed to stay in my life.You need to cop on.Your attitude towards those that protest is ignorant and very narrow minded.Which International corporation do you work for ?Has austerity affected you ? Obviously not with that silly,snobbish comment you left.

    33
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aidan J. Ffrench
    Favourite Aidan J. Ffrench
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:11 PM

    Providence have other ideas – watch that space

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:51 AM

    That’s just as well, because our mis-representatives don’t have a single cent they can call their own. They need to be reminded that they are our at-will employees, not our masters.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick
    Favourite Patrick
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:39 AM

    Flanagan is a low life.

    57
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Katie Collins
    Favourite Katie Collins
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:36 AM

    Just goes to show they’re getting scared.

    57
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean Collins
    Favourite Sean Collins
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:45 AM

    Remember some of the people that started his party FG fought on the side of a dictator in the Spanish civil war.

    54
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Fanshawe
    Favourite Paul Fanshawe
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:50 AM

    And don’t forget General Eoin O’Duffy and his Nazi straight -arm salute.

    48
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Doc
    Favourite Doc
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:31 PM

    Yeah and some of your party offered condolences to Germany on the death of Hitler and even supported the Nazis during WW2.

    4
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kevin Spain
    Favourite Kevin Spain
    Report
    Jul 1st 2014, 3:13 AM

    Do you feel what Mr Flanagan did was right? Do you think it was right to use Dail privilege in this way?
    Is their not a bigger question at stake here, of the right to protest, whether you have a job or not other than defending “the party” at all cost? Thats the kind of thinking that was rife in Fianna Fail that got us to this point.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Martin Brady
    Favourite Martin Brady
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:35 AM

    Time to clean the sh*ts out of our country, we were slaves to the brits for 800 years now we’re slaves to the E.U. paying money we don’t owe to richer more powerful countries after been threatened blackmailed forced.
    Lets start again lets have a French style revolution the new leaders will take a lot longer to become corrupt again. Time to stop these people feeding of us, using abusing us while we scramble to have some kind of life.
    FREEDOM

    52
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Joe Geoghegan
    Favourite Joe Geoghegan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:12 AM

    I wish this particular TD was in my constituency. I would be calling down to him personally to make my feelings very clear about his conduct in this matter. A TD bullying an Irish citizen on Social Protection payments! What an ass!

    51
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tadhg Kelleher
    Favourite Tadhg Kelleher
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:37 AM

    How the average person on social welfare / BTEA has to budget 188 a week

    100 per week for rent (dublin)
    10 per week – esb
    10 per week – travel costs
    40 per week – food costs (skipping some meals)
    28 euro – anything to sustain a sense of dignity

    51
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:21 PM

    40 a week is plenty to feed someone for the week. Plan your meals and do t buy prepared meals

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:54 PM

    This is horseshit.. What about rent allowance clown shoes?

    2
    See 3 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:57 PM

    €100 rent allowance, €188 to pay surplus rent, bills and food.. What travel? Nonsense.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tadhg Kelleher
    Favourite Tadhg Kelleher
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:14 PM

    apologies lads.. rent allowance only covers dodgy areas of dublin… sorry for being a burden

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 8:39 AM

    More lies.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Alan Farrell
    Favourite Alan Farrell
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:06 AM

    Facist

    50
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute richard fennessy
    Favourite richard fennessy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:25 AM

    Another ronan mullins

    44
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:07 PM

    in fairness i do not believe Senator Mullen (and you probably disagree with his politics fair enough ) would agree with this

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Zod
    Favourite Zod
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:13 AM

    Going by previous Terence Flanagan shenanigans, Joan Burton probably wrote that question originally.

    43
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dara Bourke
    Favourite Dara Bourke
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:57 PM

    she doesnt reply to lay people only an automated message saying she will follow it up and u never get anything after that!

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Ana Nonymous
    Favourite Ana Nonymous
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:57 AM

    Mr Egan will be going on illness benefit from Monday as he’s been sickened my Flanagans actions.

    42
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave cullen
    Favourite Dave cullen
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:16 PM

    Terence Flanagan,Phil Hogan,Brian Hayes… the contempt these people have for us is disgusting.

    41
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Frank
    Favourite Frank
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:13 AM

    Maybe he should move to represent Moneygall…

    40
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:02 AM

    There goes Mark’s chances of getting a job ..

    38
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mr L.Jay
    Favourite Mr L.Jay
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:11 AM

    Disgusting truly disgusting

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick O'Farrell
    Favourite Patrick O'Farrell
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:52 AM

    Absolute, total and complete gormless idiot. Why do elect these idiotic morons?????

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom
    Favourite Tom
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:15 PM

    Because they are well educated and don’t buy populist bullshit.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DamoDeMan
    Favourite DamoDeMan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:04 PM

    A new use of the Dail
    Name a few people receiving dole every week
    have their working neighbours go round and beat them until they get a job
    I love reading the comments on here
    I am all right Jack so f*@k you
    but if I run into trouble I will expect your help

    32
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Duncan Paul
    Favourite Duncan Paul
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:17 PM

    Dear Mr Flanagan
    On my behalf, I wonder if you could ask a parliamentary question to enquire as to the possibility of deducting pay from TD’s who raise ridiculous parliamentary questions?

    32
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Frank Doyle
    Favourite Frank Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:33 AM

    The words…

    ‘Utter Fascist’…

    Come to mind…

    30
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sheridan
    Favourite Tom Sheridan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:01 PM

    The question was submitted by the TD (” Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection …”). If somebody submitted the question without his knowledge that person should be sacked. If he permitted somebody to submit a question under his name without vetting the question then he should resign.

    29
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gavan Duffy
    Favourite Gavan Duffy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:45 PM

    Despicable thing to do, he must be taking lessons from Michael Noonan and Phil Hogan

    29
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian Byrne
    Favourite Brian Byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:41 PM

    Total abuse of his office to single out one individual form the many around the country who are protesting. He said the constituent who reported Egan wished to remain anonymous. One can only wonder if the anonymous constituent would be Terence Flanagan himself.

    27
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Coffey
    Favourite Paul Coffey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:41 AM

    It’s only right that we pay for our water and the fairest way is by meter. What’s wrong is the fact that not everyone will pay. So me and all the rest who work our arses off to try to pay our will be paying for all the dossers. AGAIN

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute KentuckyWindage
    Favourite KentuckyWindage
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:47 AM

    Dossers, are they the ones who move numbers around on a screen for a living, destroy the economy of a whole country, and then lie their way into getting the citizens of that country to pay their bills for them, or are they the unfortunates who were kicked out of their jobs because of the unending greed of those mentioned first?

    98
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Harry byrne
    Favourite Harry byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:53 AM

    @Paul..we’re already paying for water through tax..How the hell do you think we’ve been paying for it for god knows how long!!!!!…

    72
    See 25 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Enda Nolan
    Favourite Enda Nolan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:55 AM

    Paul you already pay for your water , what this is a new tax to pay the bankers and bondholders , your paying for the failures of fg ff and lab

    77
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Creedon
    Favourite Paul Creedon
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:02 AM

    @Paul Coffey – the water is already paid for under general taxation. That’s the point. This is nothing more than wealth confiscation dressed up in the clothes of supposed water shortage in the wettest country in Europe. It is the peoples most precious asset being put under the control of corporations and the international mafia fund… Stop being such a slave!

    72
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:10 AM

    I’ve a a private Well ,Paul ,so at the moment it doesn’t affect me .. But you calling people dossers is wrong .. I objected to the Household and the Property Tax as I had paid out between Stamp duty & Vat in the region of €100,000 -€120,000 .. Looking back at it now – I was probably more of a tosser than a dosser ..

    55
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Coffey
    Favourite Paul Coffey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:30 AM

    Yes they are

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Coffey
    Favourite Paul Coffey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:37 AM

    I’m not a slave to anyone. How did u arrive at that conclusion? Normally when we are faced with a new tax, the same blanket statement is used to justify not paying it, and that is that it is already being paid for from ” normal ” taxes. I think metering should have been done years ago.. thumbs up or down I couldn’t give a sh#t

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Coffey
    Favourite Paul Coffey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:42 AM

    I know there are people and families in real need of assistance but there are many receiving assistance who don’t. The ones who don’t deserve it are the ones I refer to as ” dossers “

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:46 AM

    The country is overrun with skangers and dossers. Stop enabling them. Dole should be given to people who have made legitimate attempts to work, nobody else.

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Coffey
    Favourite Paul Coffey
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:52 AM

    Totally agree mark kelly.

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Enda Nolan
    Favourite Enda Nolan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:33 AM

    @thomasmac you know the resources of this country oil gas and now water belong to the state , do you think this government will allow private wells take water for free or down the line private well owners will also be hit

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:47 AM

    @ mark that rules out TDs so……….. they have never done a legitimate days work in their parasitic lives.

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:49 AM

    Enda

    This is my second response to you as my first one didn’t get through the moderator .

    Yes I’m aware and that’s why I wrote “at the moment.”

    As my family pay a fair load of taxes I am not happy at this TD bringing up an ordinary Joe Soaps name in the Dail where he(TD) has full protection.. After all ,we’re not talking about an armed robber here or a person who has raped or murdered people !

    29
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:50 AM

    Says a prawn sandwich brigade man!

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute LesBehan
    Favourite LesBehan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:54 AM

    WATER IS ALREADY PAID FOR THROUGH TAXATION!

    Sorry for the caps but there are some very dumb people in this country!

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Enda Nolan
    Favourite Enda Nolan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:56 AM

    @thomasmac I m curious has anyone raised the issue of private wells with a fg or lab TD if they did what was their response

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:10 PM

    That I don’t know ,Enda ..

    What I do know is that they will screw the person ‘anyway’ and ‘anyhow’ ..

    And as long as they have their yes boys/women – then they’ll keep on doing it ..

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:27 PM

    so u can define people you dont even know….. hmmm…. snob

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Florence Nightingale
    Favourite Florence Nightingale
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:18 PM

    @Paul
    There’s no dispensation for people on the dole regarding water rates. Just as there is no dispensation for people on the dole regarding property tax rates.

    13
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Zoe Daly
    Favourite Zoe Daly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:35 PM

    agree Paul.
    In Irish society the very rich and the very poor are ok. It is the ‘middle ground’ that are suffering the most and bearing most of the burden.
    I know families where both parents are working & barely making ends meet. They hardly have time to spend with their children – let alone be out on streets protesting.
    If some of these ‘protesters’ gave even a fraction of their time to something constructive, say voluntary or community work, education, or helping those more needy than themselves, Ireland would be a far better place.

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute LesBehan
    Favourite LesBehan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:11 PM

    It’s just as well you know everyone of these protesters personally Zoe, otherwise your comment would be an over generalization of a bunch of people you didn’t know, which would be quite stupid really.

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:35 PM

    Forgot to add as well,Paul ,I wasn’t alone in justifying that one .. (Stamp Duty) After all isn’t that what Stamp Duty is ?!

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:15 PM

    You are 100% correct, Zoe. Too busy being negative to do anything constructive.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 8:09 AM

    Mark …I’m 100% positive, that if you were a door ,you would be the knob !

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 8:36 AM

    Well that hurt.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:55 AM

    What’s wrong is that we already pay through taxation. What’s wrong is that this corrupt government allowed Irish Water to waste such a huge amount of money on consultancy fees. What’s wrong is that they put someone in charge of Irish Water who should rightly be regarded as unemployable, given his past history on the Poolbeg incinerator fiasco and the wasted €108 million it represents.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:56 AM

    Mark Kelly. We have been forced to enable dossers and the economically unproductive by repeatedly bailing the banks out.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kenneth Keenan
    Favourite Kenneth Keenan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:24 PM

    By the way, this is not about the rights or wrongs of the water charges or unemployment payments; it’s about how the rewards of public representation will see a man prostitute his dignity…

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick Naulty
    Favourite Patrick Naulty
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:05 PM

    They are cutting off the water to disadvantaged and poor working people in Detroit USA as I write. Water is now designated a “foodstuff” by Nestle’s CEO with all that implies, ie controlled by corporations for profit. Water meters are the thin end of the wedge. They will cut off your supply with the click of a mouse.

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick Naulty
    Favourite Patrick Naulty
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:59 PM

    They are cutting off the water supplies to disadvantaged people in Detroit USA as we speak. Water will be the new oil, controlled by the same corporations, it is now considered a foodstuff according to Nestle’s CEO. Water meters are just the beginning, they will turn off your supply with a click of a mouse.

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:37 AM

    True. Nestlé’s CEO is reported as having said that “nobody has a right to clean water”. While I’m no socialist, there is such a thing as a “natural monopoly”, water being one of them, and they should never, ever be in the hands of corporations.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gerry Quest
    Favourite Gerry Quest
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:15 PM

    What a toe rag. People should tell him terence.flanagan@oireachtas.ie.

    22
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Andrew Kelly
    Favourite Andrew Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:46 PM

    It is an outrage that this man’s circumstances was discussed publicly in the Dail and this is a flagrant abuse of the privilege rule, this man has a constitutional right to protest and it is implied that to protest against the government or their ( misguided) policies warrants the jackboot. Further this “TD” had not the courage to name his source using the same privilege as he felt free to name the alleged protestor, shame shame shame.

    22
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimmy Preston
    Favourite Jimmy Preston
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:06 PM

    What this clown is trying to do is set a precedent, as an example if an old age pensioner protests against pension cuts, they can have their pension removed or a business person protests against a rise in rates, that they can have their C2 removed. Give him his answer in the next election.

    Ps; Mrs Doyle, will you get back to your day job of just making tea, you are an embarrassment to Craggy Island

    21
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mrs Doyle
    Favourite Mrs Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:58 PM

    Im sensing a little hostility from you Jimmy Preston are you a member of the “organisation” DSN because they always have an insult when they run out of things to say

    What in gods name has Craggy Island got to do with this discussion I ask you

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:51 AM

    Applies for 35 jobs a week and is still unemployed?

    A few tips, don’t send the same CV out to everybody. Tailor your CV for each job, include a cover letter that is tailored to each job. Explain how you meet the job specifications refer to previous jobs/ skills and education.

    Get someone else to look at your CV. Upskill with relevant skills not Mickey Mouse random courses.

    20
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Maggie Percival-Noone
    Favourite Maggie Percival-Noone
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:59 AM

    I’m sure he will truly appreciate your valuable input ! You don’t know what this man does or doesn’t do with his applications ! I would suggest getting off your high horse before you fall !

    90
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:06 AM

    Maggie what ever he is doing isn’t working i’m giving out good advice.

    Remove the chip from your shoulder and wake up. In one month that’s 135 jobs that he hasn’t gotten. He needs to change his approach. At the moment something is making him unemployable his CV and cover letter is the barrier between a job and the dole.

    There’s obviously a problem that needs to be fixed.

    14
    See 12 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:12 AM

    He’s unemployable now ,Brian

    19
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Al Smith
    Favourite Al Smith
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:16 AM

    How do you know he doesn’t already do that?

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:22 AM

    Because at 5 cvs a day over 3 months that’s 500 jobs he has not gotten. If he was doing it I find it very hard to believe that he did it land 1 of them.

    I also suspect that he has been unemployed for more than 3 months so the number could be closer to 2000 jobs.

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimbo Murphy
    Favourite Jimbo Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:36 AM

    Of you read the article you would know that he has been unemployed for 2 years, not 3 months. But sure its easy to find a job, there are 5462 jobs advertised in the country on jobs.ie, more than enough for the 400,000 unemployed plus the 200,000 people that have left in the last few years.

    46
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:43 AM

    Jimbo, jobs.ie isn’t the only place were jobs are listed.

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimbo Murphy
    Favourite Jimbo Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:51 AM

    Obviously not, but if even just 5% of jobs were advertised there then that would still leave 290,000 more unemployed people than there are jobs available.

    35
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Patrick
    Favourite Patrick
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:11 AM

    Brian thanks for pointing out the blatant obvious. I saw similar advice on a ‘ Mickey Mouse website’.

    25
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gráinne O'Brien
    Favourite Gráinne O'Brien
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:22 AM

    Ive sent off 3,4&5 cvs a day, since march I had one interview out of it all. Employers arent even replying to tell ya your rejected. So yes it is possible that there isnt a lpt of jobs. Ive up skilled change my cv around to suit specific job. Maybe you believe the spin the government has on job creation but I dont believe it

    45
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aaron B
    Favourite Aaron B
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:33 AM

    Same as my partner Grainne, applying for jobs left, right and centre, 9 out of 10 replies are ‘sorry you are over qualified’ or ‘sorry you are under qualified’. People with jobs that are not trying to re-gain employment have no clue how hard it is to get a job. Take two examples, the Garda recruitment drive back in December had 25,000 applications for 300 places and the Army had near 30,000 for 900 places. Both examples is less than 1% chance of being successful, thats what these clowns dont understand

    40
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Richard Sweeney
    Favourite Richard Sweeney
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:41 AM

    Circa 350,000 unemployed in Ireland mcgee, and you think the problem is his cover letter. How many jobs are out there?

    32
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Neal Ireland Hello
    Favourite Neal Ireland Hello
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:12 PM

    Grainne, no offence but you need to be sending a lot more than 3,4 and 5 cvs per day. Speaking from experience.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian magee
    Favourite brian magee
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:18 PM

    Neal you only need to send out one, one quality CV tailored for the job is better than 1000 Cvs that’s are ” fired out”

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Circle
    Favourite Paul Circle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:28 PM

    Who si this creep anyway ? I never heard of him before. Has he ever spoken on an issue or been involved in the introduction of or amending legislation ?
    ..

    .

    Why do we pay creeps like T Flanagan when his wages alone — forget about his perks like expenses and milage — could support ten people who find themselves unfortunate enough to be unemployed ???

    .

    ..

    19
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kenneth Keenan
    Favourite Kenneth Keenan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:05 PM

    Share this article on FaceBook or Twitter please.

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Niall o' Sullivan
    Favourite Niall o' Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:20 PM

    It’s a resigning matter and a horrendous abuse of power. Time for you to go.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kenneth Keenan
    Favourite Kenneth Keenan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:07 PM

    Share the article on FaceBook or Twitter please, it WILL help.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Neal Ireland Hello
    Favourite Neal Ireland Hello
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:16 PM

    Your enthusiasm is admirable, Kenneth, but we heard you the first two times.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kenneth Keenan
    Favourite Kenneth Keenan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:20 PM

    Sorry Neal, I’m unfamiliar with the site.

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jho Harris
    Favourite Jho Harris
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 5:23 PM

    Did Flanagan hand back the money he earned as a TD when he was out canvassing for his mates in the local elections? Surely it is not part of his job to help his mates get into power.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Niamh Hogan Dunn
    Favourite Niamh Hogan Dunn
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:50 PM

    @neeneee
    Please check your facts before making inane statements every household will pay water charges regardless of their income or ability or lack of ability to pay… You might also check back to 1987 and read the articles and statutes we pay for our water now in VAT every person or child who makes a purchase of anything pays VAT …. vAT was increased by 5p to allow the governments coffers cope while rates were removed from every house hold… Check your facts… And they are FACTS undisputed facts …. You in effect are saying your prepared to pay twice for the same thing …. Change your name to Ninny and go stand at the back of the class.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Liam Treacy
    Favourite Liam Treacy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:15 AM

    I’m amazed at the comments here. A TD has responsibilities not only to the electorate but to the taxpayer who may not be the same. We want more whistleblowers. This may well be one.

    If the facts are true then he is correct to ask, if not then he owes the man an apology. It’s up to the Minister to respond.

    Anecdotally we all know there are professional protestors out there, other miscellaneous spongers on the welfare system, medical cards with people who shouldn’t have them, public sector workers who have or do no work. In short massive waste of taxpayers money while services and front line service workers are cut.

    I know of dozens of cases of wasted money and idle work dodgers “employed” and “unemployed”. Most people do. Who do you tell? Who takes action?

    If not TD’s then who represents the taxpayers interests?

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jimbo Murphy
    Favourite Jimbo Murphy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:27 AM

    If somebody is a professional protester then they are by definition employed. It is not possible to be professional and unemployed, the two words are antithetical.

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Willie Holmes
    Favourite Willie Holmes
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:39 AM

    God ,you are so right Liam, T flanagan, TD should take a whip to the evil Egan, righteous people like the very rev TD should be allowed to punish evil doles , , no ,not enough allowed to execute ,yes that is the sort of right that “great people” like MR. Flanagan should be doing. Well, we voted them in

    27
    See 4 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Liam Treacy
    Favourite Liam Treacy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:47 AM

    Willie, what is that all about?

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:24 PM

    a TD is elected by citizens end of… perhaps u would like the old days where only people of wealth could vote

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gavan Duffy
    Favourite Gavan Duffy
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:56 PM

    Whistle blowers report new information, this man is attending public protests and welfare are obviously aware of the payments being made to him, where is the new information? This is an attempt to intimidate , nothing else.

    25
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:01 PM

    @ Liam What are you amazed at? People’s anger that a TD would use the privilege of the Dail to try and further impoverish an employed person? The biggest waste of taxpayers money and the biggest spongers in the country are government politicians and their cronies. But that might never cross your begrudging small mindedness.

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dermot Ryan
    Favourite Dermot Ryan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:03 PM

    It is rumoured that the wisdom of the west is alive and well when it comes to water meters.
    No protests ; just let them put them in and then wait till they’re gone ; no point in denying a man a day’s work ; it’s not his fault probably has a family to feed !
    Then when they are gone a strange magical urban water terrorist who ahs never been seen for some reason comes along in the middle of the night, opens the lid of the meter and pours concrete in , so that when the bill comes and is ignored for National Pride reasons if nothing else, they can’t be turned down and concreted closed !
    There isn’t a money-grabber in the world who can come between an Irishman and his water !
    As a law- abiding citizen I hope they catch this water terrorist and buy him a drink !

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute steve white
    Favourite steve white
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:36 PM

    the curious thing to me is Terence Flangans claim that his office can submit parliamentary questions without his knowledge!

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sharon Barry
    Favourite Sharon Barry
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:43 PM

    Hail Hitler

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Irene Donegan
    Favourite Irene Donegan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:23 PM

    This is an example of an abuse of power. I don’t suppose any unemployed person volunteered to help Mr. Flanagan in his campaign to become a TD.

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tim Nelligan
    Favourite Tim Nelligan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 7:27 PM

    Loving reading all the comments here.
    Government beware: the sheeple are awake!
    We now see you for what you are……

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tim Nelligan
    Favourite Tim Nelligan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 7:09 PM

    Honestly, I thought nobody could ever be more arrogant than Cowen.

    I was wrong.

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dominic Jones
    Favourite Dominic Jones
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:47 PM

    Maybe the next step is for unemployed people be made ware a yellow star .

    14
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Martin Freyne
    Favourite Martin Freyne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 7:13 PM

    Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable.

    John F. Kennedy

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:36 AM

    The Irish tradition of wanting something for nothing is alive and well I see.. Plenty of thumbs down from the work dodgers.

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:45 AM

    @ mark Our TDs get more than enough for doing f**k all except lying to people. The tradition of lying sits well with those parasites. Why dont you put a photo up? Or are you another spineless young FG troll who is afraid to be seen.

    38
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:52 AM

    Why should I have to put a picture up? I can see a thumbnail of you, could be f*cking anybody.. Not sure what difference that makes? I’m not a Fine Gael supporter. Give me politicians over salt of the earth skangers anyday of the week.

    7
    See 10 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:10 PM

    you might enlighten us all where the jobs are ? i suppose there is no recession and there are not half a million less jobs there than during height of the ” celtic tiger “

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Favourite Caoimhin O Hailpin
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 12:12 PM

    if u are not fg well then fair chance your ff

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dave Doyle
    Favourite Dave Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:16 PM

    @ mark …. that in fact is me in the thumbnail if you’re on the side of the spongers, parasites, liars, cowards and crooks, i’m not surprised you dont have the guts to post a pic to your name!

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 2:50 PM

    @Caoimhin, I already stated that I have no problem with legitimate people getting social welfare. People who through no fault of their own are out of work and are pro-actively doing something about it. My problem is with the armies of tattooed, tracksuit wearing skangers and dirtbags walking our streets who are handed everything on a plate, including free houses for their dirtbird girlfriends and ugly kids. Same goes for these smelly pothead hippies who protest for a living and sponge off the state. I’m not a Fianna Fáil supporter.. I don’t support any political party.

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:08 PM

    Yes, I’m terrified that load of strangers will see a picture of me.. Busted.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tim Nelligan
    Favourite Tim Nelligan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:14 PM

    Bravo, Sir.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tim Nelligan
    Favourite Tim Nelligan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:18 PM

    Wow. Somebody like you actually exists, eh?

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:49 PM

    Very insightful post, Nelligan. Do you have a point? How about disagree with what I’ve said and argue your case?

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:58 AM

    It isn’t something for nothing, you moron. We already pay for water through general taxation. Hasn’t that sunk in to your thick skull yet?

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tim Nelligan
    Favourite Tim Nelligan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 6:19 PM

    @Mark Kelly There is no “case” for me to argue. Mr Egan’s constitutional rights have been breached by Mr Flannagan under cover of Dáil privilege.

    Nothing more to say.

    10
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Jack Byrne
    Favourite Paul Jack Byrne
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 1:00 PM

    When there is something really worth protesting nobody bothers. Irish people are stupid, its official!

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute miketrout
    Favourite miketrout
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:10 PM

    Egan has been unemployed for 2 years so he does a course in European language studies thinking that will get him a job. Are you kidding me!!! – Try developing a real skill thats actually useful and I’ll side with him that he’s been wronged by the system

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mark Kelly
    Favourite Mark Kelly
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:23 PM

    And you are living in denial.

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute james faulkner
    Favourite james faulkner
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:13 AM

    Are you sure your name is not ” Ross O Carroll Casey”

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Maria
    Favourite Maria
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 7:28 AM

    Mark Egan: if you’re reading this, you should make contact with the Data Protection Office – your Data Protection rights may have been breached.

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Dara Bourke
    Favourite Dara Bourke
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:55 PM

    good on u mark keep up the good work. does that mean we should cut his salary when he fails to do the work for the people.

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Billy Dempsey
    Favourite Billy Dempsey
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:20 AM

    WHAT THE ( F ) IS GOING ON,, THIS MAN NEED A GOOD WAKE UP CALL , DID HE NOT HERE OFF FREE SPEECH AND THE RIGHT TO PEACE FULL PROTEST,, IT GET THING THAT SOON WE WONT BE ABLE TO STEP OUT OUR DOOR’S IN FEAR IT WILL COST US MORE UN JUST TAX’S,, HE’ S A FOOL ,, THE GOVERNMENT ARE A JOKE ,, GOD KNOWS WHAT PEOPLE IN OTHER COUNTRY’S ARE SAYING ABOUT US .

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mary N Murphy
    Favourite Mary N Murphy
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 4:50 PM

    A wealthy Theif, abusing his power that was given to him in the first place by the public who misguidedly voted him into power, well that can be undone next election , Cut his gravy train citizens and DO NOT VOTE FOR HIM OR IS ILK AGAIN

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Mrs Doyle
    Favourite Mrs Doyle
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:43 AM

    @ 3 mins 20 secs says it all

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOYgDBEbtk4&index=30&list=UUbpWYukqsFonxYxv2tF7tlQ

    I had a look at some of the other videos his so called “organisation” does and it quite shocking really

    Well the devil makes work of idle hands

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean Upton
    Favourite Sean Upton
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 3:05 PM

    The dole is an expense too far for the WORKING people of Ireland. Should have been abandoned long ago! Bertie was too kind to the “underprivileged” (heroin users) and now the country is doomed! Youthreach should have a mandatory course on setting up a water meter and the unemployed should be put to work installing them! Pathetic, leftist establishment. The revolution is not far now..

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kenneth Keenan
    Favourite Kenneth Keenan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 4:15 PM

    You are a moron.

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:57 AM

    The dole is paid for out of social insurance contributions. If you want to scrap the dole, you’ll have to scrap them too.

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Barbara Franzoni
    Favourite Barbara Franzoni
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 7:06 PM

    It’s such a shame that in tough times so many people will cruelly and vindictively turn on each other to blame their problems on those even less fortunate. Sometimes it seems that this country is just bursting with nasty and uncaring dog-in-manger types; and in that vein, this Flanagan guy really takes the biscuit for being petty and vindictive, happy to trample on the rights of anyone with whom his small mind disagrees. Shouldn’t public representatives strive to make peoples lives better not worse? But then you look at Mark Egan who stands up for others as well as himself and it’s good for the soul. Another thing that is good for the soul is to read all the comments on here as most people seem to be in agreement that this Flanagan guy is in the wrong – maybe more people will take courage from Mark’s stand now. I salute Mark and wish him all the best – hopefully his willingness to care will prove contagious and spread quickly.

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute gary banner
    Favourite gary banner
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 9:40 AM

    I’d like to think Flanagan was being cheeky , as he himself was willing to put his political career on the line in protest against a government……

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Philip O'Dowd
    Favourite Philip O'Dowd
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 10:51 PM

    The Lad, who is on the dole does not need to defend himself. Forget about that. The people in Government have given him all the rights and reasons to protest.

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tom Sullivan
    Favourite Tom Sullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 11:48 AM

    Government can not give you rights. It can merely affirm those you already have.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sparxz1
    Favourite Sparxz1
    Report
    Jan 20th 2015, 10:05 PM

    If this is true, the that means pensioners could have their pensions delayed, and civil servants, seen at protests their wages delayed, and promotion cut of, demotion or other harassment could take place.
    Not to long ago Alan Shatter was in deep trouble for using mining information on his political opposition unlawfully(even boasted on television that he was doing it !). Breech of Data Protection law was also raised at the time. As the government increases unemployment, increases poverty, and forces immigration of Ireland’s future(they admit). Then are they also now using the dirtiest tactic in the book ?
    Allot of people who work long hours to try and keep themselves in their homes would love to be out protesting, and would love to spend their time bringing this undemocratic travesty to an end. I can’t imagine they would resent other protesting who can, but resent those who can that don’t.
    Terrance Flannagan’s explanation of this matter will be the decider if he can even safely canvas in next general election.,
    without being flanked by Gardai to try intimidate votes out of people. Good thing we have a secret ballot in Ireland(that we didn’t have in the past).

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute si
    Favourite si
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 11:17 PM

    sigh…..where to begin on this one! Firstly I must say that I do think it is fundementally wrong to bring up individual case files in such a manner as Terence has done in this case. However that being said I applaud terence’s motives and I believe it is absolutely about time td’s and others question those who spend all their time protesting ie career protesters. A quick look at any of these dublin says no water protests will quickly establish that the same people, about 10-15 (not all mind you just some) or so are there causing a nuisance every hour of every day during the week. I say they are “causing a nuisance” and not that they are “genuine protesters” because I am aware of these same 10/15 people being involved in protests from everything to save palestine, anti-israel, anti-british and every other protest that remotely sparks an interfering interest for them. Quite simply these individuals should be targeted by welfare and their dole stopped immediately because they are wasting garda resources and are not doing for the good of the country, no they do it for their own ego, they most likely havent worked in years feel detached from the establishment and wanna waste everyones time getting their own back ie. put 2 fingers to the proverbial man. Finally I will say that as someone who knows the ambulance crew on duty last week when one of these “dublin says no” protesters allegedly injured themselves once again, he was personally disgusted at how you jumped up morons were willing to waste such precious resources on a lady who clearly had nothing wrong with her…unfortunately protocol meant she had to be taken to hospital. I hope in future you guys strt paying extra for all those wasted garda and ambulance services you call out. Oh ye and Im not one of these so called “blueshirts” you paranoid people think are hacking journal.ie…..goodnight

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute eileen osullivan
    Favourite eileen osullivan
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 10:20 PM

    I have been writing to the minister Howlin re FOI and have had a sudden review of an appeal i recently won . here is his latest email to Simon Harris about me – dont you think he sounds annoyed?
    Ms O’Sullivan has already contacted me on this subject and I responded to her last February, setting out my position in relation to Section 8 of the Freedom of Information Bill 2013, including the rationale for replacing Sections 15 and 16 of the Freedom of Information Act 1997 with this new provision. I am attaching a copy of my reply to Ms O’Sullivan for your information in that regard.

    In addition, I recently answered two Parliamentary Questions which were put down by Deputies Eric Byrne and Dominic Hannigan on behalf of Ms O’Sullivan on the same subject. I am attaching a copy of my reply to those questions also, which I feel makes my position in this matter very clear.

    I would like to take this opportunity to assure you that the move to publication schemes rather than the current Section 15 and 16 manuals represents a progressive step designed to lead to an increase in the proactive publication of information by public bodies and is in no way designed to restrict the publication of material by those bodies. I would also like to reiterate that one of the important aims of both the Bill and the Code of Practice for the operation of FOI, a draft of which I intend to publish for public consultation in due course, is to improve the consistency and standardisation of approach by public bodies in responding to FOI requests and to ensure they are dealt with as efficiently as possible.

    Yours sincerely

    Brendan Howlin TD
    Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

    Actually when I checked with Eric Byrne’s office they assured me that the did NOT eter their question my behalf. In fact TDs never attach which citizen the query is from on Dail Questions. Very Strange I must say. He also did not answer the question which was this What is the procedure for amending a ‘code of practice’ after it has been legislated for via both houses of the Oireachteas?

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Tim Nelligan
    Favourite Tim Nelligan
    Report
    Jun 28th 2014, 8:21 PM

    My “Bravo” was for @Dave Doyle.

    My “Wow” was for @Mark Kelly, if that’s even his name……

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Thomas Mac
    Favourite Thomas Mac
    Report
    Jun 29th 2014, 8:13 AM

    Probably “Brendan Boyd “… A quick bit of research on old threads and you would soon find out ..”FOS” is our” Mark”

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Peter McLoughlin
    Favourite Peter McLoughlin
    Report
    Mar 14th 2015, 9:51 AM

    More attempts at social division. Fact is anyone with half a brain sees this for what it is a precursor to a privatized Water supply company a monopoly with infinite profit potential. The idiots who support this company can wipe the smug smile off their faces with when they are paying €700+ water charges in 2018.

    That is what is happening everywhere else in EU and that is what will happen here. Only difference is it wont be sold to the highest bidder it will be sold at a bargain basement price to a home grown billionaire to ‘look after our own’.

    Ireland had almost 100% employment back in early 2000′s, but according to some a large portion of the population have suddenly become lazy useless wasters and don’t have a right to democratic protest. Fact is not every area has enough jobs to go round unless we all move to Dublin, Galway and Cork. I have been to a Water Protest in my own county and most of the people there had jobs or were of pensionable age.

    As for this tool and his party, they offer nothing new and really should just doe everyone a favour and stop pretending they aren’t Fine Gael.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute IMF true Irish'hero'
    Favourite IMF true Irish'hero'
    Report
    Jan 20th 2015, 9:36 PM

    Here’s a better question, why don’t we make TD salaries performance related? And when they make the inevitable hugely expensive cock up or are caught for extortion, they do community service and have huge pension cut.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Daniel John Joseph O'Dwyer
    Favourite Daniel John Joseph O'Dwyer
    Report
    Aug 7th 2014, 5:58 PM

    Having known mark egan in school I know he is a waster and also that he was previously taking job seekers while being in college

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Eoghan Ryan
    Favourite Eoghan Ryan
    Report
    Mar 29th 2015, 12:14 AM

    he looks like the idiot who a few months ago out side the dail replied to a question on exorbiton wages and expences to our T Ds ” if you pay peanuts you get Monkeys. ” …think your own thoughts

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Eoghan Ryan
    Favourite Eoghan Ryan
    Report
    Mar 29th 2015, 12:20 AM

    he looks like the clown who outside the dail a few months ago in answer to a question on the exorbiton wages and expences replied …” if you pay peanuts you get Monkeys “…..i’ll lets you think your own thoughts on that.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute steve white
    Favourite steve white
    Report
    Jun 30th 2014, 3:57 PM

    this was a follow up to a series of questions he asked in march this was a follow up to a series of questions he asked in march

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute steve white
    Favourite steve white
    Report
    Jun 30th 2014, 3:57 PM
    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute steve white
    Favourite steve white
    Report
    Jun 5th 2015, 4:02 AM
    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Peter R Long
    Favourite Peter R Long
    Report
    Jul 1st 2015, 7:02 PM

    Just another spastic on the right who believes that we the people should have no civil liberties, I’ll tell you what he should do he should go out and hunt down the organised criminals who make their substantial earnings through murder, hard drugs, intimidation and violence WHILE claiming every benefit under the sun….It’s not a crime to be long term unemployed AND being active in a movement that tries to change the country for the better

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Paul Farrell
    Favourite Paul Farrell
    Report
    Aug 2nd 2014, 2:54 AM

    This from the same guy who is too lazy to do the job he was elected to. Anyone remember this shambles?

    http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0220/99840-politics/

    Didn’t vote for him last election. Have never voted for him previously and will never vote for the slimy weasel.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gavin Harold
    Favourite Gavin Harold
    Report
    Mar 14th 2015, 10:01 AM

    If it wasn’t for the unemployed in the country there be no one to stop these meters going in fair play to everyone out standing up for our rights y don’t all the people in support of the water charge and this government have a march in support of them

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Smith
    Favourite Jack Smith
    Report
    Jul 30th 2014, 7:28 AM

    Where are the water meter people? They are shouting out for individual privacy rights. It is a call for personal freedoms that \i feel most would support and, in fact, insist on.

    1
Submit a report
Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
Thank you for the feedback
Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.