Madam, – Having a party in power that is politically and financially bankrupt presents us with a unique opportunity that should be grasped vigorously!
Who better than a deeply unpopular and doomed Government (or their heirs-apparent that few seem to really want in power), to “go for broke” and push through what are likely to be a number of unpalatable changes?
Let us cut out all the nonsense- talk of “doing more with less”. We need to simply do better with less. To Messrs Cowen, Kenny, Gilmore, et al, may I offer some suggestions?
1. Rather than being regarded as the former plaything of bankers, politicians, property developers and other cohorts, let us show innovation by becoming a nation that measures success not just in fiscal terms, but more importantly by the health, wellbeing and happiness of our people.
2. Underpin the above with a clear vision of who we want to be as a nation, with measurable objectives and values (eg honesty, integrity, respect, community) against which we can keep ourselves “in check”.
3. Radically reform the public sector centred on the above vision, mission, objectives and values.
The members of a government who can articulate and manage such change shall be true leaders – because they will have true followers. While I cannot claim to stay up as late as David McWilliams, I am happy to receive high- powered political guests to my home to discuss this further. Garlic can be provided. – Yours, etc,