I was fortunate enough to spend the last few days in Galway for the Volvo Ocean Race and while there, I bumped into none other than the captain of ‘Team Ireland’, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny. I was wondering around the global village when I spotted him and after biding my time and waiting for him to finish with his baby pictures (yes they happened) and shaking the hands of well wishers (I was surprised by their number) I got my chance and moved in. I wasn’t exactly sure what I was going to say other than that it would revolve around employment numbers, or the lack of them. When it came to the crunch I asked what he, as leader of the government, was going to do help improve the the dire levels of eployment in my hometown of Limerick. The answer was nothing. He is going to do nothing.

It was recently reported that out of the top ten unemployment blackspots in the country, seven are in Limerick city. I put this to the Taoiseach and asked what he was planning to do to alleviate the problem. His first response was that “You’re doing fine down there.” No we’re not. He named some of the big employers in the area and some things he believed would help the region. Dell was mentioned as one of the large employers. I countered that it can’t be counted as such since production left for Poland. I agreed that the separation of Shannon airport from the DAA could be a big boost, provided we are actually given full autonomy. But I laughed when he said the regeneration is working well. He topped it all off by saying “What do you want us to do?” Your job, Enda. I want you to do your job.

I asked why don’t the IDA actually help the city. Numerous reports and experts have highlighted just how integral Limerick city is to a strong mid-west region. They are helping was the reply. The number of jobs created doesn’t suggest they are doing a good job. He said that we need to help ourselves, to come up with ideas, present them to the government and they will help. He used the Ocean Race as an example. I said we have the largest tag rugby tournament in the world in the form of the Pig n Porter. Why don’t Failte Ireland support it, help grow it? He just glossed over that question.

In general the tone was one of indifference, a shrug of the shoulders and a what do you expect me to do attitude. The Taoiseach then asked me what field I was involved him. I told him I graduated with a degree in journalism, have some experience and I can’t find a job, that I’m struggling to secure a Job Bridge place. He said that I should change my chosen career path. I want to work in the media, it’s what I studied for and what I am passionate about. When I said this he simply stated it’s tough out there. I half expected he suggest I emigrate.

Overall, the experience did nothing to enamour me with the man. He seemed more concerned with the possibility that there may be a camera trained on him and keep gesticulating and looking forward in order to look the part. The substance just wasn’t there. We’re down and out. We need a hand, not a foot in the face. If the sporting adage about only being as strong as your weakest player is true, Team Ireland’s captain hasn’t heard it or else is relying on one or two star players.

Interestingly, as the conversation came to a close, he seemed to remember something and said there will be a jobs announcement for 600 positions in Limerick soon. It was unusual to throw it out there at the end. Either he is spoofing or has no skills to deal with an argument about jobs and support (Enda not up to a debate? Never.) I guess we will find out soon. And if it doesn’t come to pass, I’ll be there to pull him on it.

@lastguyleft