Sir, – The review of Government performance to date, including observations on “What I’d do differently” (Weekend Review, March 3rd), was, positive, very relevant, and timely. Among the many worthwhile suggestions in the latter category, Harry McGee’s suggestion that Enda Kenny should “set out a vision of where Ireland can be in 2016” is hugely important for the people’s morale.
The Coalition’s March 2011 joint document – “Government for National Recovery 2011-2016” – states: “By the end of our term in Government, Ireland will be recognised as a modern, fair, socially inclusive and equal society, supported by a productive and prosperous economy”.
This visionary statement has been lost since the Government took office! Clearly Ministers are working hard to find solutions to serious problems.
However, their struggle seems like filling deep potholes on the road to God-knows-where. To find hope, to be able to lift our eyes, support our Government, and see a better future, we all need to believe our Taoiseach knows where he’s going. We need a signpost. We need a clearly defined goal. As things stand now we have nothing to believe in – just soldiers, taking many casualties – an army with no clear morale-shaping objective.
At times of crisis, great leaders find a vision to fill the sails. – Yours, etc,