We must utilise our status as 51st state of US
On a recent study trip in Boston and North Carolina, I was also very struck by the very positive vibes towards Ireland, and these vibes are not just lip service — they are actually backed up by massive US investment in Ireland. Perhaps when this whole eurozone crisis is over and when some semblance of health and independence are restored to Ireland, we might just start a national debate about our status as the 51st state of the US. I have never encountered such positive vibes towards Ireland in Paris or Frankfurt. That is worth reflecting on.
Having said all of that, it is quite incredible that a small island off the west coast of Europe with a population akin to a small US city could have such an impact on the global stage. For a country that is going through such a traumatic period and that is so full of anger and self-doubt at the moment, the position we occupy on the world stage should give some crumbs of comfort, provided we exploit the potential that it offers to the greatest extent possible.
As usual, the troop of Irish politicians going overseas for St Patrick’s Day has elicited some negative reaction. These criticisms are totally unjustified in my view. Given the damage that was done to Ireland’s international reputation in the years of arrogance leading up to 2008 and during the subsequent economic and financial bust, it was never more important for Ireland to get out there and market itself as a civilised place in which to do business.
Organisations such as the IDA and Bord Bia are now doing a very good job in that regard, but it is vital that this be backed up by members of Government. It is very powerful to have images of the Taoiseach ringing the opening bell in the New York Stock Exchange or marching in the Chicago parade, just as it was powerful to see the Queen and the US President here last year.
Just over a year ago the incoming Government was very aware of the damage that had been done to Ireland’s international reputation and there has clearly been a very concerted effort over the past year to repair some of the damage.
For a small open economy like Ireland with such a heavy dependence on overseas investment, trade and tourism, reputation is very important. Just 18 months ago, Ireland was receiving incredibly negative international coverage. Investors and tourists would have been very justified in asking if Ireland was really a place they wanted to gain exposure to. That perception has now changed dramatically and thankfully most of the international coverage we are now getting is of a much more positive variety.
Our policymakers and leaders must be encouraged to continue to get out there and market Ireland. However, it is also vital it is not just marketing speak. We must ensure that this marketing is backed up by solid reform, including the way in which we run the country.
In this context, some of the cutbacks that are occurring may not be what the doctor ordered. I have written a lot here in recent weeks about the policy towards education, but other public services and public infrastructure also need to be maintained to the highest standard possible.
In this regard it is unfortunate that another €3.1bn relating to the infamous promissory notes looks likely to be handed over at the end of March. It is disappointing that the powers that be in Europe have not yet been convinced about the burden these payments are placing on the Irish economy. That clearly is where the focus of the international charm offensive has got to be over the coming months.
