What has happened to the previously ultra smooth SF PR machine?

It’s not as if they should find themselves in a position not to be able to pay for spin doctors.

Could old 'Dev' be stirring in his grave?

Seamus, I pointed out that cracks were starting to appear months ago. Dare I suggest that part of their problem is that they sent some of their best operatives abroad e.g. Mr O'Broin.

McDowell accepts that McGuinness was not making the threat but then goes on to respond as if he had.

It's sounds like the George Bush "Bring it on" soundbite and it indicates a similar mentality.

'McDowell accepts that McGuinness was not making the threat but then goes on to respond as if he had.'

Accepts? Not in the interview I read. He made an assumption, but accepted that it could be interpreted as a threat and responded, quite rightly, with the governments response if it was so intended.