We actually just exchanged e-mail, didn't IRC, otherwise the thread would've been re-opened before anyone had noticed.

You're right that IRC has been the home to arbitrary decision making by those who hang out there.  It is only a subset of the community who does so (and I'm not one who regulary does so).  I think folks are aware of this, and try to remember to move issues to the forums for wider discussion but you're right, it doesn't happen all the time and should.