Economic Shock Doctrine

A brief snippet of a detailed analysis of the report of 'An Bord Snip Nua'.

The publication of today's report by the 'Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure' was always going to be a herald of painful times. The Republic of Ireland is caught in the midst of a severe economic 'correction' unparalleled in the history of the state. Given the overwhelming hegemony of free-market ideology across the political spectrum, stretching from Sinn Féin on the 'left' to Fine Gael on the right the only way out is to cut back public services and/or raise taxation.

Yet, the breadth and the depth to which the report of 'An Bord Snip Nua' as it has become known (recalling an earlier anti-working class bureaucratic onslaught of 1987 vintage under the original 'An Bord Snip') will surprise even the most pessimistic of commentators. The two volumes (over 300 pages) of the group's report catalogue an unrelenting and seemingly universal series of cut-backs, increased charges and restructuring which will do little to contribute to the gaping budget deficit yet have immediate and horrendous consequences right across the working-class and specifically on those already suffering the pain of the recession.

This is the first of two posts by Socialism or Barbarism which will review the findings published by the Department of Finance today. We do so without apology. If this report is implemented by Government it will set the scene for the coming social struggles in the months and years ahead. For the almost unending stream of cuts identified will undoubtedly provoke a reaction from wider Irish society, in particular, the trade unions, equality campaigners, regional interests and special interest groups - all of whom will bear the brunt of this most serious public sector restructuring.

More at site below (second part to follow soon)