I have been concerned for a number of years that we have been misled about the social and economic health of the nation.
The fundamental economic indicators were sending out deafening warning signals. Unfortunately those tasked with analysing such data chose not to listen, primarily because to acknowledge the problem would have conflicted with their agenda.
Collecting tax in the form of stamp duty and the selling of dodgy financial products took precedence over honest evaluation. Collectively we are now paying the penalty for the sins of a few. If I had to point the finger it would be directed clearly at our government and those ensconced within the higher echelons of the banks. They are a disgrace!
In short our elected leaders and our bankers colluded to sell the nation short! It was in their short-term interest to do so they did with no thought for the common good. Such is the stuff these people are made of. We should never forget it.
I have always believed that the Whittaker Report (1959) had the correct approach. Ireland's future lies in the development of strong indigenous industry primarily focused on the knowledge and value added sectors.
Certainly we need to continue to promote and foster the development of foreign direct investment but the true barometer of our economic health lies in our indigenous and privately owned industry. In this regard I believe we need to change the national mindset with regard to entrepreneurship and the development of business.
This book is a celebration of entrepreneurship in Ireland. It acknowledges the importance of people such as our subjects and I hope provides some guidance on the attributes required to be successful.
From a social perspective we have frittered away Billions of Euro on Quango’s and inefficiently targeted strategies, However well intentioned. Meanwhile valuable charities live on a financial precipice and cannot survive without donations from the public. This is not acceptable but it is fact.
That is why I am donating all profits from this project to Childline.
|
