Brian Lenihan: In Calm and Crisis

Description

Brian Lenihan served as Minister for Finance during the most serious crisis Ireland has faced since the foundation of the State. He was a central figure in negotiatiing the rescue package sought by the Irish Government and the programme agreed with the Troika.The recollections within this powerful new book throw light on Lenihan’s political career from its earliest days, through to the dramatic hours leading to the Bank Guarantee and the subsequent bailout, to his untimely death in 2011. The perceptive and timely contributions are drawn from those who were directly involved with him at all stages of his professional life, and include high-profile public figures and political insiders from all sides of the Irish political spectrum. From the international stage, Christine Lagarde offers her memories of the man and the challenges they faced together.

The book also touches on Brian Lenihan’s achievements as Minister for Children and later as Minister for Justice, giving a rare insight into the principles that guided his life and career. A tireless public servant and adept politician, Lenihan was hugely tested as Ireland’s economic crisis rapidly developed and utterly consumed the entire fabric of the nation. Throughout this time, his constant focus was to work in the best interests of his country. The legacy of that ambition is debated in this unique collection from a wide spectrum of contributors. Brian Lenihan: In Calm and Crisis highlights Brian Lenihan’s skills as a lawyer, academic and politician and gives us a fuller sense of Brian Lenihan: the man.

About the Editors

Brian Murphy is a former speechwriter to two Taoisigh.
Mary O’Rourke was a member of Dáil Éireann (1982-2002 & 2007-2011) and Leader of Seanad Éireann (2002-2007).
Noel Whelan is a barrister, Irish Times columnist and author of a number of books on Irish politics.