Cowen should wipe the party slate clean and give country a fresh start

AFTER a period of some 30 years of being governed by Taoisigh who were either inept or corrupt, or both, the advent of Brian Cowen as head of government is to be warmly welcomed.

As a first step towards allaying rampant cynicism regarding politics and politicians in general, Mr Cowen should take steps to distance himself from the present incumbent and from those sycophantic cabinet colleagues whose strident defence of the indefensible, as they tried to persuade us their emperor really had clothes, has brought disrespect for ministerial bumbling to an all-time low.

Brian Cowen trails no clouds of corruption. One can understand and believe what he says and there is a general expectation at this time of economic uncertainty and unrest that his will be a steady hand on the tiller.