COMMENT
A move in the right direction
THIS newspaper has never been slow to criticise the Irish
Government when we believe it is falling down on its duty to
the community in this country.
So it is only fair we give credit when it is due.
The announcement of the final round of grants from the Díon
fund for 2005 sees 32 different organisations across Britain
benefit with much-needed funding.
It also heralds the start of the 2006 round of funding —
which will see more than £8million distributed to worthy
causes in the Irish community.
That is almost double last year’s total — and means the
level of funding has grown 12-fold in less than 10 years.
The figure is still far less than the amount recommended by
the Task Force on Emigration report commissioned by the
government to look at the needs of Irish citizens across the
world.
But it is moving in the right direction — and gives a clear
indication that the government is committed to sharing the
spoils of the Celtic Tiger boom with those who were forced
to move from Ireland in less fortunate times.
For that the Irish Government — and Minister for Foreign
Affairs Dermot Ahern in particular — are to be
congratulated.
An old and new combination
IT’S hardly the dream team Irish soccer fans had been hoping
for.
It seems Brian Kerr’s replacement as Ireland manager is to
be former player Steve Staunton — aided by the veteran Bobby
Robson.
Not quite the big-name appointment people had been expecting
when the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Martin O’Neill, George
Burley and Terry Venables were being touted for the job.
Staunton brings with him just five months’ management
experience at English third-division side Walsall FC.
Bobby Robson, of course, brings with him a significant
degree more.
But the pair face a daunting task. Ireland will be fourth
seeds for the Euro 2008 qualifying draw in Switzerland later
this month and the squad has lost the experience of Roy
Keane, captain Kenny Cunningham and Stephen Carr — who have
all retired from international football.
Whether Staunton and Robson can fashion a new Ireland side
capable of recapturing past glories remains to be seen. If
they cannot you can be sure the knives will be out for the
FAI for its decision to appoint such an inexperienced
manager.
But if Ireland do qualify for Euro 2008 the choice will look
inspired.
|
