No need to worship at the altar of Trump
IEXPECT that I'm not the only person in Ireland who watched the ‘welcome' of Donald Trump to Shannon Airport in recent days from behind my hands cringing for all involved. It has to be up there with some of the most embarrassing spectacles of all time. As a nation brought to its knees by the recession it seems we now become giddy and a little light headed at the thought of a man of Trump's wealth setting foot on Irish soil. Except for the fact that it wasn't Irish soil, but a red carpet instead. A red carpet. The sign that one has truly arrived.
Not only did Mr. Trump receive this honour but a troupe of music making lovely girls were situated on the runway where his private jet landed to entertain him as he disembarked.
Whether or not the quality of the music was good is beside the point. The fact is that the twee and needy Irish card was played and this man's ego was given a boost it did not require.
Okay, he invested money in purchasing Doonbeg golf resort but let's not think for a second he did it for the country of Ireland or its population.
This man is a businessman to the core and makes decisions based on economics and of course that is his right. He saw an investment opportunity, he took it. And yet we saw fit this week to go and worship at the altar of Trump to thank him for his efforts.
If this was an opportunity to have Ireland showcased on an international stage through media coverage of Trump's visit then we have failed miserably. Why oh why must we fall over ourselves to suck up and pander to such people.
After all he is just a man regardless of his spending power. Such pomp and ceremony really is over the top for an occasion and personailty such as this.
Just because we are a small nation doesn't mean we have to bow down to all that is perceived to be bigger than us. Many would argue that our compliance with Europe regarding the bailout was just this. Taking the medicine without complaint and being grateful for it.
Maybe we should adopt a little more of Trump's swagger and confidence rather than always appearing to be so grateful that he has shown Ireland any interest at all.