
Well known as journalist, broadcaster and lecturer, Colm McCarthy became a household name as author of the 2009 report of An Bord Snip Nua, commonly known as the McCarthy report, which recommended extensive cuts in Irish public expenditure. Viewed as a right-wing economist, McCarthy’s views are never less than challenging, trenchantly and often wittily expressed. It seems more relevant than ever to provide an interesting perspective on Ireland in these extraordinary times and that of Colm McCarthy is bound to stimulate.