Machine Nation

I think this issue underlines the difference between Ahern and Cowen. Cowen is a 'scruff of their necks' instinct type of politician whereas Ahern was pretty much the opposite. Personally, I am intrigued at the possibility of a Taoiseach who just might not be so interested in 'consensus at all costs'. Ahern rewarded mediocrity and incompetence and I like to think Cowen might be a different kind of political animal. That said, I think he missed an enormous opportunity with the junior reshuffle.

The most interesting angle in all of this is about how it will resonate with voters. The 35/36% of people who will vote FF no matter what probably won't care but it will be interesting to see how the 'soft support' reacts to this new style. For instance, I have a gut feeling that a lot of female voters will not respond positively to Cowen. The swearing thing was no big deal in the grand scheme of things but if the opposition continue to wind him up (and they will) then it will be very easy to paint Cowen as a short-tempered bully.

All in all, it was a bit of a f**k up.

He has cancelled the Galway Races tent anyway...

johnfás wrote:He has cancelled the Galway Races tent anyway...

Woah, seriously? Mind you, they were fundraising outside my church last weekend. Am I the only one that has a big problem with parties doing this, and the church allowing it? Especially when it's Labour.

They tend to collect outside the Church gate though, as opposed to on the grounds, don't they? Not much the Church can do about it in that circumstance. I wouldn't know though, they don't come after us - no interest in Protestant money obviously .

In regard to the tent, as I said on P.ie

johnfás wrote:It is a welcome move from a PR point of view. However, the real issue is the corporate donations which occur inside the tent and what is done by the party in return for them. Getting rid of the tent doesn't particularly help in lowering the level of corporate donations, it is just a good headline grabber. I'll welcome the move when he bans corporate donations.

905 wrote:

johnfás wrote:He has cancelled the Galway Races tent anyway...

Woah, seriously? Mind you, they were fundraising outside my church last weekend. Am I the only one that has a big problem with parties doing this, and the church allowing it? Especially when it's Labour.

Its a handy place to pick up small donations - a good thing, but surely a bit public for some. Suits me anyway as I don't go to church.

I found this brilliant website for watching every politician ! Kept up to date it seems too ! Another shiny object for the portal !

http://www.politicsinireland.com/category/td/brian-cowen/

ttp://euobserver.com/9

There is a video here - top right - that presents Brian Cowen a lot better than he has been represented here, in terms of communicating what the No vote was about.