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WHAT ARE WE GOOD AT?:( Relatively) young and hard-working island state seeks work after falling on hard times. Talents include self-belief, a GSOH, partial third-level education and a friendly demeanour. Skilled in construction, IT, manufacturing, making and taking phone calls, and farming. Growing competency in science and technology, chemistry and pharmacy, financial services. Enjoys home improvements, shopping and socialising, travel and legal affairs (particularly fond of tribunals). All reasonable offers accepted.

WE THOUGHT we had it sussed, but then it all fell apart. Like a high-flying executive who suddenly faces the prospect of unemployment, Ireland is suffering from a crisis of confidence. As a nation we're middle-aged, we're not as sure as we once were, we're saddled with debt and we're doubtful that our skill-set is appropriate for the world in which we now find ourselves.