Rebuilding Ireland - Contrast shows why we’re in crisis

ANYONE who believes this country has a future, maybe even a bright one, has had their optimism and sense of patriotism rattled this week.

That that optimism and commitment remain powerful enduring forces in our psyche are two of the reasons we will overcome the challenges shaking this society to its core. But there are lessons we must learn and, even more importantly, lessons we must implement with determination.

Our absolute aversion to the idea of being responsible for our actions must change dramatically if we are not to condemn our children to an even grimmer future than the one we have already consigned them to.