Anglo bailout bill - Last chance saloon for Government

A cement mixer with “Anglo Toxic Bank” displayed on the drum of the truck blocked the gates of Leinster House yesterday. The stunt was obviously carefully planned.

Maybe this was just coincidental with the return of the Dáil after the summer recess and yesterday’s planned demonstration against the forthcoming budget cuts, as part of the European day of action. Coincidental or not, the events are indicative of mounting public frustration.

Today marks the second anniversary of the Government’s decision to guarantee the Irish banks. People may argue over whether such a complete guarantee was necessary, but before anyone can come to a confident conclusion, it is necessary to understand the full implications of the extent of the guarantee, especially in relation to Anglo Irish Bank.