Let me say at the outset that I am a fan of the United States. I even like George W. Bush although I could see some of his shortcomings. A Blog for another time.
My wife just returned from Ireland after a 2 week visit with our daughter. I did not accompany them but had been there with my wife 5 or 6 years ago.
My wife told me how much Ireland had declined economically since we were there last and she was stunned with the change. Much has been written about Ireland's economic troubles - and indeed the whole world has suffered as a result of America's housing crash and financial meltdown.
All countries have suffered, not the least of which the USA.
But through it all there has been one thing lacking - a heart-felt apology from the US Leaders. The damage, both human and economic, caused by their negligence in failing to properly oversee their markets, goes beyond the imagination. Their unique position in the world places upon them a certain position of trust to act for the benefit of all.
In that regard, I would have thought that they would have taken a greater responsibility for what transpired. That they would have reached out more to those countries who they so severely damaged - Ireland being but one of many.
Their actions - or lack of action, has also severely tarnished the reputation of the capitalist system. As I said in a previous Blog - the free market has no soul nor conscience it simply and effectively allows women and men to operate freely within the limits imposed. If critical oversight and limits are lacking - greed and self-interest will prevail.
I believe it is too late now for an apology, but I sincerely believe that the US has been even more diminished in the eyes of the world for its failure to provide one.
Enough said.
"Galagher"
