A Chara, - During the oil crisis in 1973, Olav II - then king of Norway - took the local train to the ski-jump at Holmenkollen on the outskirts of Oslo. This simple act of humility endeared the king to the Norwegian people.
Olav was a very popular king throughout his reign, not only because he was able to balance regality with approachability, but also because during a time of economic uncertainty, he was able to lead by example.
In this time of economic uncertainty in Ireland and worsening traffic gridlock, perhaps the Taoiseach could lead by example by withdrawing the ministerial "Merc" and encourage members of his Cabinet to take the train. Maybe then more of us would leave the car at home and use public transport instead.
Who knows, perhaps even the sight of Brian Cowen taking the train from Tullamore to Dublin would embed him in the hearts and minds of the Irish people. - Is mise,
MICEÁL BOLGER,
Cill Bharróg,
Baile Átha Cliath 5.