We need a drastic change of course

THE shocking and serious nature of the economic decline over the past few months serves as a reminder to all of us that the better the party, the worse the hangover the next morning.

As a nation and collectively as individuals we must of course accept our share of responsibility.

Many of us who grew up in a time where our parents barely owned one house decided to gamble on a second one. Heading off to Paris or Rome for the weekend was nothing unusual and it was the only place we could be guaranteed to have dinner out where the entire restaurant was not discussing house prices. I think many would agree that as a nation synonymous with the ideal of struggling we deserved to let our hair down.

At all times however government is supposed to keep its head even and especially when all those around them are losing it — and this is one of the reasons why we are where we are today.

The legacy of those years is sadly not a better health service despite the billions spent on it, nor is it a strong and prosperous economy based on indigenous industry and innovation.

The legacy of those years is sadly visible only on the half completed building sites which litter every town and rural village in Ireland.

Tomorrow’s budget will tell us a lot about the extent of our current dilemma.

As we embrace an era of greater personal responsibility, then we too have the right to demand this from our politicians.

In the case of the current administration, I believe they have not grasped this concept of personal responsibility.

Effective and inspirational leadership requires openness, honesty, and understanding. The Government as a whole is completely out of touch with the people.

The answer is simple: we need to choose a new government now that reflects our own future hopes and dreams.

Our journey so far reminds me of Titanic — we are going too fast, not looking ahead and sinking rapidly. It’s time to change course.

Niall O Connell

Matthew Hill

Lehenaghmore

Co Cork