The root of Fianna Fáil cronyism

Seán Lemass: Democratic Dictator

THERE has been a abundance of Seán Lemass biographies, all pretty much heaping praise on the man dubbed Ireland’s favourite taoiseach. He is acclaimed for being the architect of modern Ireland, a role model for today’s politicians and an iconic figure in the Fianna Fáil party he helped establish in 1926.

Bryce Evans paints a different, less favourable portrait. This biography, which coincides with the 40th anniversary of his death, doesn’t ignore Lemass’s achievements, but it explores the unexplained myths.