DEAR SIR: Brexit is described as the divorce option between Britain and the European Union (EU). The marriage metaphor is useful and can be explored in the case of Ireland’s relations with the EU and the emerging consensus in Britain about ending austerity economics.
In recent years, progress and privilege in the EU has been strongly tilted in the direction of the markets, for the benefit of the few already advantaged and with the appalling consequences for many struggling with low income, precarious employment, homelessness, health issues, etc. However, the Brexit divorce option is likely the nuclear option and is already causing massive heartache between Britain and Brussels. It begs the question: is there an alternative to support the independence of each state and at the same time allow the interdependent dance of harmony enjoyed at key moments in a healthy marriage?
The current fiscal space allowed by the EU rules is clearly not able to handle national social issues of importance, such as the need for the state to build social housing, to implement the recommendations of the new nationally agreed health plan, etc.
While the new cabinet is promising new politics, the first major announcements all point toward giving more advantage to those already advantaged. Examples include using the money from the AIB sale to pay down debt and giving tax breaks to those already with jobs.
What cabinet members in their ivory tower appear to miss is that for the average Irish citizen, this issue is no longer about money. It is about restoring our national pride as a decent society, who have borne the brunt of austerity. It is ultimately about what kind of marriage Ireland wants to have with the EU – a subservient marriage or a marriage of equals?
SHARING OPTIONS