Cowen is joint second in table of shame for our economic shambles

IN an unpopular government, Brian Lenihan remains a relatively popular minister, so much so that the opposition seems to have decided he is not worth attacking personally, even over NAMA or Anglo Irish Bank, issues where he has not covered himself in glory, or the public sector pay cuts which he has forced through to much divided opinion.

His gift for convincing communication – even when he may be bluffing – stands in stark contrast to the delivery of his boss, Brian Cowen, who is the opposition’s main target. There is more political capital for the opposition by attacking Cowen about his economic performance both as Taoiseach and in his previous position as Minister for Finance – as both Labour and Fine Gael have done effectively over the past week.

The bank guarantee is the obvious starting point because ultimate decision for its introduction rests with Cowen and everything that is happening with investment in the banks now is directly linked to that (if caused by the earlier reckless lending). While the introduction of the guarantee required government approval, it was effectively presented to the cabinet in the early hours of September 30, 2008 as an essential fait accompli. While Cowen had plenty of others advising him in the hours of the day before – and indeed in the run-up – the ultimate decision rested with him.