It seems to be possible because I have seen it attempted. Unfortunately, the case failed on other procedural grounds, if I recall correctly. (My recall is imperfect, but I am quite certain that no objection was raised on the grounds that the prosecution of perjury was impossible).

“The Taoiseach was in an invidious position because of the relaxed attitude adopted by his predecessors to ethical issues.”

– This is just silly logic suggesting that low standards in the past could act as a block to taking action in the present.

That is not the suggestion from the IT editor. It’s saying that the Taoiseach may use that situation, which – with Bertie being his predecessor, is true – to excuse himself from making a moral/ethical/legal decision. The IT is not saying it’s an acceptable situation, it’s saying the Taoiseach will attempt to make it one. “Well, Bertie did nothing so I can do nothing…” It’s saying the Taoiseach is in trouble because the ethical bar has been lowered by Bertie, thus Brian Cowen will have to raise it again. It’s not a moral outlook, it’s a political observation. And a correct one, Bertie took the bar underground, if anyone in FF is going to attempt to raise it they’re going to be resented by their colleagues.

“Because public confidence in authority had waned there was a need to promote high standards and ensure political accountability.”

- In real democracies such standards are the expected norm and not something that needs promoting.

Well then you’re in agreement. The IT clearly thinks there’s a need to promote political accountability and high standards, is thus imploring Brian Cowen to do so. You think there is no political accountability as there is no functional democracy thus something needs to be done to change that. Where you differ is how that change should come…

“The matter may create friction between the Coalition parties.”

- This is an irrelevant point unless the editor feels that government unity is more important than political, legal and ethical accountability.

Or unless the editor believes the Taoiseach believes that. It’s not irrelevant, it’s contextual. If friction doesn’t arise then it’s indicative that Greens don’t want to “promote public accountability in high office”.

You’re right about the News At One discussion being purely political as opposed to cirtical from a moral/legal/ethical standpoint.