The Presidential Illusion

The President of Ireland commands a largely ceremonial role. Her influence in areas of foreign affairs is constitutionally limited by the advice of the government. Her discretionary powers are rarely used by a combination of circumstance, and those which are important can be farmed out to other actors without loss of integrity.

However, her role as Head of State seems important to citizens. Let us consider the reasons behind this, and exactly how the position has been cultivated.

The Efficacy/Electability Trade-Off

With elections looming, the Green Party should be looking to capitalise on the progress they’ve made since entering government with Fianna Fáil. Many of the objectives set out in their programme for government have been implemented, in considerably more difficult circumstances than anticipated.

Instead, the exigencies of politics have forced them to reconsider their new partners. The Irish Times explains why the exit strategy is rational from their perspective, as the current government’s unpopularity has become a liability in election season. It is a harsh reminder of the immaturity still present in Irish politics and voters.

Tough Love

Israel will continue to place short-term security concerns ahead of the long-term prospects of peace, as long as the US tacitly consents by not objecting. If he forced their hand in diplomatic negotiation with Syria and Fatah, President Obama would be doing the Israeli people a favour. Strong words from Vice-President Joseph Biden before the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) bode well.

Considering the comments made by his President in the run-up to the election before that same committee, Vice President Joseph Biden’s remarks are a welcome dose of realism. Most notably, he declared that Israel must work towards a two-state solution. It seems obvious.

Recipe for Recovery?

The Economist critiques Gordon Brown’s tax changes in the UK. By pandering to the masses and allowing dictation of policy by politics, they will damage the long-term recovery prospects for the economy and drive out the economy’s highest earners. The entire country will suffer for this myopia, even if voters are not angered in the short-term.

The Democratic Will of God

There is no single definition of harm, and rights can be traded off to ensure the most efficient outcome. If there exists enough political support for the blasphemy law, it does not represent anything more than protection against offense and a value judgement over the importance of unmitigated freedom of speech. Think of it like an externality charge.

The Irish Government is currently considering the introduction of a new law which would make blasphemy a crime, subject to a fine of up to €100,000 (which could be reduced to €1,000 if a revision is successful). While it would unfortunately be included as an amendment to the Defamation Bill, arguments against the introduction on grounds that it is a ‘victimless crime’ are superficial.