For all their failings, entrepreneurs remain the meat in the sandwich

Unfortunately, sufficient reality has not yet prevailed on the property sector. It seems many landlords, in refusing to negotiate rents downward, would rather have their properties vacant. This denial and refusal by property-owners is one of the greatest causes of closure.

SEVERAL years ago I received an unexpected item in my Dáil post. It was a personal letter from Brody Sweeney seeking my advice whether it would be a good idea for him to embark on a political career.

Over subsequent conversations, I explained the unglamorous reality of political life: the relentless door-knocking, constituency work, unsociable hours and endless meetings. I explained the toll it would take on his business and family life. Politics requires total personal commitment to succeed. I did everything to dissuade him.