No more cronyism, no more hidden agendas – let’s just call it straight

AS THE full extent of the nation’s failings becomes visible, we should reflect on what aspects of Irish behaviour and attitudes differ to the rest of the developed western world. What are the cultural issues to address that contribute to us being on the brink of bankruptcy?

The decision-making elite includes the political class, business leaders, professions and opinion leaders. It’s time to look in the mirror. Some argue such analysis is unnecessary self-flagellation. It’s more likely deep denial prevents us from addressing our morass.

Irish culture is not merely about Gaelic art, music and sport. Cronyism is at the heart of the Irish personality. It has many forms. The old school tie provides a network that is self-supporting, based on exclusion and exclusivity. Parochialism breeds a clannish allegiance to colleagues from the same origins. Nepotism has flourished. Second and third generations have a remarkable habit of continuing in top jobs. None of these features amount to corruption, but facilitate poor decision-making, based on false friendship and misguided loyalty.