Sir, – Since our economy crashed in 2008, we’ve perused and analysed what happened and what went wrong. The current banking inquiry is but the latest in a series of analyses undertaken. Our public administration both during and prior to that period has rightfully been the subject of scrutiny. As it is on a daily basis. Both the Public Accounts Committee and the media have important jobs to do. Inevitably, much of that scrutiny is critical. After all, good news doesn’t sell newspapers.

But I think it is only fair to give credit where credit is due. I’ve long been of the view that our public service played a historic role in 2010 keeping the country afloat as the government of the day lurched from crisis to crisis.

It’s good to see that view replicated by a respected participant and interlocutor in those years. In the interests of fairness, I draw attention to the words of AJ Chopra at the banking inquiry last Thursday.

“On the Irish side, the counterparts at both the technocratic and political level were uniformly superb. They were knowledgeable, dedicated, smart, funny and committed to tackling Ireland’s difficult situation. There are too many individuals for me to mention by name and it’s invidious to single out just a few so I won’t do so. These Irish public servants were true heroes in how they dealt with the crisis in Ireland and Europe. The nation should be proud of them and they should be proud of what they achieved under difficult circumstances.”

Since our election, this Government has sought to enhance Civil Service performance and accountability. Secretaries general of government departments now meet collectively in a management board to address issues in a shared manner and they report to a new accountability board as recommended in an independent report.

There is always room for improvement as there are always new challenges. But it is equally important that criticism is balanced with a recognition of the commitment and dedication identified by Mr Chopra. – Yours, etc,

BRENDAN HOWLIN, TD

Minister for Public

Expenditure and Reform,

Merrion Street,

Dublin 2.