Conor Skehan: In praise of the draft Programme for Government that knows the key to the country – ‘it’s the economy, stupid’

The adage 'it's the economy, stupid' rings true in the draft Programme for Government, as outlined by Conor Skehan. Recognizing the importance of a strong economy, the programme wisely focuses on growth, market freedoms, and job creation as the foundation for societal progress, sidestepping the distractions of over-regulation and social welfare excesses.

While praising the youth is essential, the new Programme for Government's focus on 'the economy, stupid' misses the mark on addressing the systemic inequalities plaguing our society. Economic growth cannot be the sole yardstick for progress when the environment, social equity, and worker rights remain sidelined in the pursuit of profit.