Our Taoiseach Enda Kenny on his first official visit to 10 Downing Street remarked that “how serious he is about Ireland economic problems”. Indeed the new government here in Ireland have prioritised on economic matters since taking office, from recent Bank recapitalisation to the Jobs Budget next month. Some in the United Kingdom have questioned the loan by the Chancellor of the Exchequer of 4 billion pounds to Ireland as ill advised. It should be reminded that the loan is after all a loan, if it is fully written down the repayments will earn the UK Exchequer 240 million over time. We as a country find it hard to fully accept the fact that we will be repaying in excess of 100 billion euro due to recklessness by banks but it is the legacy we are left by the previous failed Fianna Fail - Green administration. There was non-existent regulation in the banking sector, how Brian Lenihan can stand across the house and hurl any type of attack at Michael Noonan is beyond me. There are many trade links with our two countries. Indeed the UK has more bilateral trade with the Irish Republic then the emerging markets of China, India Brazil and Russia combined. While there is a difference in opinion over the approaches to Agricultural Policy, most other EU matters are approached from a common basis with both countries. Issues of Northern Ireland are regularly consulted with between Dublin and London which shows the strength of resolve from both Governments to have an effective approach to the constant threats occurring. The air route between Dublin and London is the busiest in Europe while also Irish and British tourists regularly make up a significant amount of revenue in their visits across to each other’s countries. David Cameron praised our government’s tough but necessary decisions on the economy, he himself has to make difficult choices and also enter into a coalition with a party that had some significant differences in policy. Enda Kenny had numerous engagements in the City Monday with an aim to restore our reputation that has been tarnished in many ways since 2008. We now are revitalised but face significant challenges both home and abroad. The other pressing matter visit of the Queen to Ireland is a hot topic here, with most viewing it as a chance to showcase the good will and modernity of the Irish People. There will be some opposition but that is not representative of Irish Society here. The legacy of British rule in Ireland is by no means forgotten but we have moved on as a nation and a people.
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