TWO IRELANDS. LILY MAE'S SONG

Listening to Newstalk's Tom Dunne this morning, you could not but have been moved by the interview with Lily Mae Morrison's Mum. Lily Mae is battling Neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, and a version of Elton John's  "Tiny Dancer" has been released to raise funds for her. The response has been astounding. The song has gone viral and is selling in huge volumes. The story has gone global and even Elton himself has lent his support.

Amidst the other news on the radio, you couldn't help but think that there are two Irelands out there.
Yesterday, our arguably most odious politician, Michael Noonan, assured us that ''we would be getting a fair budget, with those who could afford it being affected the most''. You wouldn't have to be Nostradamus to figure out who Michael is talking about.  He means employers and small businesses and because of his detachment, does not realise the damage that he will do. Now don't get me wrong, it's not a Fine Gael thing. We've been governed by a combination of five parties over the last five years and all have proved their rottenness and detachment from those of us who live in the real world. Higher taxes for employers and small business will mean job losses, resulting lower PAYE tax take and increased welfare payments. Thus perpetuating Ireland's problems. Mr. Noonan showed his odious detachment from ordinary people during his time as Minister for Health some years ago and his recent comments on Greeces' economic problems would indicate that he has not changed. This is the one Ireland which Irish people do not deserve.

And then there is the other Ireland. The Ireland of leaders like Lily Mae's Mum. People who want to make a difference and are supported by the warmth of a people who genuinely care for each other.
When Irish people put their minds and hearts into something we are capable of doing brilliant things. That is the Ireland we can all be proud of and which will continue to survive despite the terrible conditions created by those we pay to govern us.We all hope and pray that Lily Mae will get the treatment she needs and deserves and that she will celebrate many Christmases to come with her family.
Oh! and its a nice song too. Buy it!