Sir, – How wonderful to hear International Monetary Fund European department director Antonio Borges say Ireland’s performance was exemplary but the situation remains challenging. I feel so proud.
Our leaders slithered their way to the begging bowl after keeping their hand in the cookie jar until it snapped shut, but at least we’re playing nice now and getting a pat on the head from our jailers. The Fighting Irish can hold their heads high; we are obedient, snivelling little serfs and if absolutely nothing else goes wrong the money-lenders in their fancy counting houses might be merciful and let us live. Welcome to 21st-century democracy. – Yours, etc,