In Search of the Pope's Children - Episode 3

Series presented by Irish economist David McWilliams examining the new Irish generation of young and sassy people which experienced unprecedented success until the recent financial downturn hit. Taking a snapshot of Ireland at a time of economic boom, the series challenges the popular view surrounding New Ireland and its perceived ills, uncovers the reality of Ireland's relationship with cheap credit and questions whether it would build on or blow its economic prosperity. David takes us back to learn some lessons from history and how what is stable today can change dramatically tomorrow. He poses the questions about a 'plan B' for Ireland going forward - how to deal with China, immigration and increasing monthly mortgage repayments? The programme also explores how Ireland has gone from being a country with too many people and not enough money to a country of not enough people and too much credit. David uncovers what seems to be an endless supply of credit and takes us to Germany to introduce us to the hero of the Irish economic boom. He examines Ireland's economic relationship with Europe and the US and explains how a madness for property has sucked most of the resources out of the economy, elbowing out investment in other ventures such as research and development. With most of Ireland's exports generated by multinationals, the boardrooms of New York have more of an impact on the fortunes of the Irish economy than Dail Eireann.