An interesting conversation between the Tanaiste Ml. Martin and Seamus Coffey lecturer in Economics in UCC. Seamus has a good grasp and understanding of how the Irish economy is performing vis a vis the global picture and the balancing act that government must perform in order to not fall off the rails. However! the Tanaiste was clearly at a disadvantage as his responses were more interested but being the politician could only view the situation from a political perspective that has more to do with reaction rather than being proactive in planning and design. A fresh approach is currently required.