Ireland's government - masters of the intransitive state

Confusion seems to be the order of the day (and week) with Cowen and friends seemingly unable to explain what's going on in pure and simple terms. To be or not to be? Bailout? Can the government really be like a doorsep preacher using the age old trick of getting a foot in the door? Either Ireland needs the bailout or it doesn't. The FT today sets out the state of play - but swings into uncertainty around the issue of the stance of the Irish government.....

It's time for the Irish government to make an honest statement, set out its stall and get on with the business of running the country. If the budget needs to be brought forward, so be it. Government salaries and the public service should be slashed and the out of control welfare hand-outs should be reined in. Successful industry leaders should be brought in to run the show for the next six months to one year with only oversight from the Government.