Changes

This warm reception did not last however - the Government Budget for 2009, announced in October 2008 by Finance Minister Brian Lenihan proved to be extremely contentious. Of most pressing concern was the government decision to take away medical cards from over-70s as a costcutting measure, and a 1% levy on all incomes. Though these measures were blamed on the recession the Irish economy was finding itself in, they were extremely unpopular. In the days after the announcement of the Budget, Cowen made concessions, reversing the income levy for those on the minimum wage, and raising the income limit for seniors that would determine whether or not they would be allowed a medical card.

This warm reception did not last however - the Government Budget for 2009, announced in October 2008 by Finance Minister Brian Lenihan proved to be extremely contentious. Of most pressing concern was the government decision to take away medical cards from over-70s as a costcutting measure, and a 1% levy on all incomes. Though these measures were blamed on the recession the Irish economy was finding itself in, they were extremely unpopular. In the days after the announcement of the Budget, Cowen made concessions, reversing the income levy for those on the minimum wage, and raising the income limit for seniors that would determine whether or not they would be allowed a medical card.

The medical card controversy caused particular worry in Cowen's government - several elected members of the ruling party openly condemned the move, and two resigned from the party. Due to the public outcry surrounding the budget, and the impending reality of a second referendum on the Lisbon treaty, Cowen's popularity and influence are waning.

The medical card controversy caused particular worry in Cowen's government - several elected members of the ruling party openly condemned the move, and two resigned from the party. Due to the public outcry surrounding the budget, and the impending reality of a second referendum on the Lisbon treaty, Cowen's popularity and influence are waning. Further controversies and in-party revolts relating to the Budget, and revelations regarding excessive use of taxpayers' money by government officials and agencies have further dented Cowen's reputation, and an election is looking more likely in the near future, so much so that [[Fine Gael]] leader [[Enda Kenny]] and [[Labour]] leader [[Eamon Gilmore]] have begun preparing their parties for an election campaign, only eighteen months after the previous election.

 

==Cabinet (2008 - )==

==Cabinet (2008 - )==