Cowen should put his own people first
Brian Cowen's bridge building between the Republic and Northern Ireland is commendable. But he should think very carefully before establishing a back office servicing arrangement, in Belfast, for Dublin's IFSC.
As things now stand, it would be a win-win situation for both cities. But what if things change? What if the North's corporate tax rate is, at some future date, brought into line with that in the Republic?
With a lower cost base, new buildings in the Titanic Quarter, and ready-made back office services, Belfast could become an attractive option for companies that might otherwise set up business in the IFSC.
And while there is nothing wrong with healthy competition, it must be borne in mind that Belfast is in receipt of ongoing international donations, and is currently being supported by a highly remunerative package, courtesy of both the British and Irish taxpayer.
Mr Cowen would do well to remember that his primary responsibility is to further advance the standing of the Republic as a place to do business.
I would have no qualms whatsoever about giving all the help we can in support of the Northern economy, but it would be suicidal, in these uncertain times, to shift the focus of investment from the needy areas in our own economy to those of another.
With the global economy in free-fall, this is no time for political gestures, however well intentioned.
NIALL GINTY
KILLESTER, DUBLIN 5
Last week, Brian Cowen warned the social partners on wage restraint.
Would that be the same Brian Cowen who, as Minister for Finance, made sure that any decrease in income tax was more than offset by stealth taxes?
Could that be the same Brian Cowen who oversaw the massive rise in house prices, while creating a banking atmosphere that facilitated ridiculous loans?
Is it the same Brian Cowen who voted with the Government to increase his personal salary by €38,000-a-year next year?
Has Brian looked at his new Taoiseach's salary to discover that he'll be on €5,960 every week while a fifth of his voters will get less than €200? Is that the same Brian lecturing us on wage restraint?
JOHN MALLON
MAYFIELD, CORK
