That’s what this election is coming down to – and it’s refreshing. People are getting picky about exactly what’s being promised for once in Irish politics.

Often, my exasperation as a journalist in Dublin was the stream of tit-for-tat bullshit and figure-churning offered by politicians in lieu of real politicking. Skewed figures and blatant lies are emitted from press offices on a day-to-day basis while the Dail is in session, with press releases issued like shrapnel. Much of the dross doesn’t hit flesh, but at the moment, with time ticking away for all concerned, there are quite a few wounded bears wandering around out there, angry and dangerous.

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