Much Ado About Nothing
The Irish political scene is in some state, Bertie Ahern, who received 12,734 votes out of a population of 4 million (that translates into about 0.00318%), is negotiating with other parties to set up a coalition government which will re-establish him as Taoiseach (Prime Minister).
During the Election Campaign of 2007 Bertie announced that we were the richest country in the world and the biggest exporter of technology in Europe. He also said that he was not guilty of any wrongdoings involving finances during his Ministerial years in the early 1990’s.
Whatever about the finances (the Mahon Tribunal is investigating these and other matters), it is ludicrous to believe that we are the richest country. One only needs to look at the Immigration numbers and origins to tell us which countries we are doing better than (Poland, Lithuania, Bulgaria), there are not waiting lists of migrant workers coming from elsewhere in Europe or North America. As to exporting IT, only Microsoft, taking advantage of cozy tax breaks, is responsible for that and they make sure no monies other than wages and 12.5% of the profits stay here.
After three generations of Nanny State mentality it seems we are struggling to come "into our own" as regards to our dependency on central government. The founders of the New State had vision and no money whereas the elected (leaders is an inappropriate term here) of the New Millenium have plenty of money and no brains. With an opportunity to eradicate many social ills of the nation and to lay the groundwork for future economic growth and security, Fianna Fail(ed).
In true fact the state of Irish politics suggests cliches like "all smoke and no fire" and a "tempest in a teapot". In 2007 Europe the job of Irish politicians is to properly manage our resources, keep the peace, provide for the populace, and to avoid getting fined by the EU for being eejits. End of story. The major issues will be dealt with and determined by the EU Parliament.
Real credit for our continuing economic success is due to previous EU investment (to help us "out of the bog"), the Irish business entrepreneurs who took risks during the 80’s and 90’s, the multi-nationals who take advantage of a low corporate tax rate, and most importantly on the people themselves who bear the burden of high prices, inept public services, and incompetent politicians. I didn’t hear any of them being given any kudos by Bertie this election season did you?
