ABSTRACT
A particular shortcoming in need of a remedy is the structural inability of our government to propose, legislate and administer a balanced program for governing. As new economic or social problems are recognized, a responsible government must adjust these priorities. In the case of energy policy, the need to accept realistic oil prices has had to be balanced against the immediate impact of drastic price increases on consumers and affected industries, and on the overall rate of inflation. Our government has adopted a wide variety of national goals. The Irish Constitution contains a replica of our Bill of Rights, an independent Supreme Court that can declare acts of government unconstitutional, a figure-head president, and a parliamentary system. A responsible government must be able to adapt its programs to achieve the best balance among its conflicting goals as each new development arises.
