AN ARTICLE IN US magazine Newsweek which nominated Brian Cowen as one of the world’s 10 most respected leaders has generated over 50 comments in under three days since it was published online.

The article praised Cowen for “prescribing harsh medicine” in the current tough economic climate.

It noted that the “Irish aren’t showing much gratitude”, which is clearly reflected in the comments:

Digital Orchard simply writes:

Glad to see NEWSWEEK has a sense of humour

Donal Hayes summed it up sucinctly, saying:

Well, thats my Newsweek subscription canceled. Sweet Jesus on a raleigh.

Tadhg McGrath writes:

This guy should be on a wanted poster, not a best leader list. As former finance minister, he has to accept responsibility for the economic mess the country is in.

Paul Moloney says:

Crediting him because he’s giving “harsh medicine” is like crediting a useless drunken father because, after he’s pawned the furniture for beer, has decided to break open the children’s piggy banks to buy them dinner.

But it wasn’t all one-directional Brian-bashing, as a minority of commentators expressed their views that Ireland needs to get on with the job at hand – economic recovery.

Lisa Irwin writes:

Will people stop moaning. He’s doing what is needed.
I assume people here can remember this country before the celtic tiger.
Despite the economic troubles Ireland is still better off than it was in the 90′s.
The economy will recover.

Dermot Cullen says he’s not surprised about the reaction to the piece given Cowen’s approval rating, and comments:

I’m not a Fianna Fail’r but I believe he is making the right moves for Ireland. The international community also thinks this. Pity most Irish people are too pigheaded to see it.

The original article and accompanying comments can be found here.

A thread on boards.ie echoed the responses given on the Newsweek site, with a more balanced division between those agreeing with the summary of Cowen’s position and those venting their anger.

Ads by Google writes:

It’s true though.. We’re getting some international praise for taking corrective action over a year earlier than most places. We can’t see it but we’d be more fooked without it.

Blue_Lagoon writes: NewsWEAK!

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