Can Michael D and Ireland really deliver?

HOW does Michael D Higgins, as the new face of Ireland, plan to attract foreign investment?

I know this is mainly down to the IDA but as Michael D shall be promoting Ireland abroad I fail to see how our once unique qualities remain unique to Ireland as they are also present in other countries. We have for many years boasted of our workforce in terms of educational levels and willingness to work, but is this also true now for countries such as Poland? I wonder how Michael D will distinguish between Ireland and our fellow European counterparts. He spoke of recreating the Irish culture and of opening our creative channels but I fail to see how these revitalised qualities will equal jobs for a country that for the past few years been haemorrhaging jobs at a huge rate?

As a graduate who has been seeking a job and ultimately returned to college due to the lack of employment I question Ireland’s ability to provide for my future employment. Ultimately I feel we are facing another generation loss. I hope for the success of Michael D as our president. I believe he will do his upmost for our country, but the lingering question on my mind is how do we appear different from the rest? And how do we get back on our feet?

Anna Marie Moroney

Killanena

Caher

Co Clare