Politics is the only game in town. We will not sort out our socio-economic crisis until we sort out our political crisis. Not tinker with grandiose or knee-jerk populist schemes for institutional reform which may take years to implement but make the existing system, and its personnel, work.

Ironically, we can actually gain from the George Lee episode if we, the people, do not avoid politics but take it back from the boys in the backroom, the gamers and the parasites. Engage with the TDs who support the failed government. Remind the fossilised croquet players on Leinster Lawn that they are our servants.

Maurice O'Connell,

Fenit Without,

Tralee, Co Kerry.