Cowen emerging from McCreevy's long shadow
With his second Budget unveiled, Minister for Finance Brian Cowen is finally emerging from the long shadow of his predecessor Charlie McCreevy.
The pro-business economic policies of the current EU Commissioner dominated during the seven Budgets he delivered between 1997-2003.
But when Mr McCreevy exited to Brussels, Mr Cowen chose to prioritise the vulnerable sections of society with one eye on winning the next General Election.
With his third Budget due next year, Mr Cowen’s tenure has focused on a series of giveaway measures aimed at the disability sector, the elderly, low-income workers and parents of young children.
The UCD law graduate is also seen by observers as more affable and approachable than Mr McCreevy.
Former Finance Minister Ruairi Quinn, who preceded Mr Creevy, said today: “Cowen is far less arrogant and individualistic than McCreevy.”
This is reflected in what Mr Cowen said in his first Budget statement a year ago: “This Budget is an initiative of Government as a whole and not simply the work of the Minister for Finance.”
Mr Quinn, Finance Minister during the Rainbow Government of 1994-1997, explained that Mr Cowen’s ministerial style is also more inclusive towards his Cabinet colleagues.
He added: “This may explain the level of leaks in recent weeks relation to each department’s responsibility.”
One Government advisor commented that Mr Cowen may also be a more shrewd political operator than his predecessor.
“McCreevy liked to pull last-minute surprises out of the hat in his Budgets, like decentralisation, which often placed him at the mercy of Opposition criticism,” the advisor said.
“Mr Cowen is more shrewd and will have carefully anticipated the political implications of everything he announces.
“He is also likely to consult more widely with his Cabinet colleagues and seek their input.”
Another successful Budget today will also enhance Mr Cowen’s status as the natural successor to Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.
Cowen, who celebrates 21 years as a TD this year, has previously served as minister in five departments including health and foreign affairs.
The Clara-born solicitor’s father Bernard and grandfather Christopher were both Fianna Fail TDs.
He was appointed deputy leader of Fianna Fáil in 2002.
He and his wife Mary have two daughters, Maedhbh and Sinead.
