The Last Word with Matt Cooper Paschal Donohoe Leaves Government For Role In World Bank
Nov 18, 2025
Daniel McConnell, editor of the Business Post, discusses the surprising timing of Paschal Donohoe's resignation and its rarity. Dan O’Brien critiques Donohoe's fiscal policies while highlighting potential benefits to Ireland from his new World Bank role. Sarah Carey warns of a 'brain drain' in Fine Gael, stressing the need for effective leadership beyond technical skills. Professor Gary Murphy predicts limited changes in government stability despite the reshuffle, pointing to new cabinet replacements with cautious optimism.
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Fiscal Stewardship Cemented Donohoe's Reputation
- Paschal Donohoe built credibility through calm fiscal stewardship across multiple crises.
- He transformed repeated deficits into sustained surpluses, stabilising Ireland's public finances.
Move To World Bank Is Both Rare And Lucrative
- Leaving for the World Bank is unusual for an Irish cabinet minister but financially transformative for Donohoe.
- The World Bank role offers about €600,000 tax-free and is roughly three times his current pay.
Collaborative Style Kept Coalition Glue
- Donohoe's collaborative style was a key asset in keeping the coalition stable.
- His departure risks a brain drain of intellectual heft and may change Cabinet dynamics.