Wednesday, March 18, 2020

A Ministerial Emergency Broadcast: Irish Style Leadership

Last night, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar made an emergency broadcast on local television.  The subject: Covid 19.

Though he is not my favorite politician, I was proud of the man. Forthright, measured, honest - a true leader. His words were filled with darkness, but also hope. He reflects the compassion and sensitivity I have long found in the people of this country.

If you're part of the Diaspora and have not seen his RTE broadcast, see the link below. 

His warnings were grim.  

  • The HSE, Ireland's health organization, anticipates up to 15,000 Covid 19 cases in Ireland
  • Ireland will experience more deaths
  • The country is on an emergency footing, and will action what the government thinks right to protect the nation
  • Economic conditions will continue to worsen. To support the vast number of people who will lose their jobs, as well as bolster health and social resources, Ireland will borrow billions of euro. The necessity to borrow, and the need to eventually repay it, will affect the Irish economy for generations
And yet, Varadkar came across as very much a human being. As he said, "Never have so many asked so few for so much." 

He is correct. And his words made us realize that we must all do our part.

We are fortunate to have a man of his character in office. I can think of other world politicians who could learn from his leadership and compassion.  

See his broadcast here

2020 Edition of A Survivor's Guide to Living in Ireland is out Now!

As I write this, the world's people are facing into the strongest headwinds we have experienced in our lifetimes. This tome will not help. But if it provide a bit of humor, a bit of knowledge, a way to sit back and forget what is  happening for a few minutes... then perhaps I am right to include it here. Find A Survivor's Guide to Living in Ireland, 2020 Edition, here

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