Downfall of an economy and government explored

Hell at the Gates reveals the facts, thoughts and emotions of Ireland’s most hated government. Authors John Lee and Daniel McConnell spoke to current and former ministers, including Brian Cowen, Brian Lenihan, Eamon Ryan, Micheál Martin and Mary Harney providing them with a platform to tell the inside story of that doomed government in their own words. In Hell at the Gates they provide a deeply honest, deeply personal, revelation-strewn account of their experiences in the white heat of an economic meltdown.

In the book, former taoiseach Brian Cowen speaks openly and honestly, finally explaining his thinking on matters that had huge repercussions for the Irish citizens - from the 2008 bank guarantee to his public image and his refusal to address the nation. Cowen also breaks his silence on that infamous night at the Fianna Fáil think-in in Galway in 2010, and the botched Cabinet reshuffle of January 2011 which led to his downfall. His honesty and candour reveal a new side to the pilloried politician and provide an insight into his thinking throughout his turbulent reign as leader.

Hell at the Gates also details Brian Lenihan’s ambitions and struggles, revealing how serious his desire for leadership was and how he saw himself as a credible interim taoiseach who could better lead Fianna Fáil through a general election. For the first time Micheál Martin gives a definitive account of his decision in early 2011 to move against his embattled leader. Former cabinet minister Willie O’Dea talks about how the Green Party insisted on his resignation, for which O’Dea has not yet forgiven them.

Former ministers speak about how they were physically assaulted by traumatised members of the public at the height of the crisis and how they cowered in their homes and hotels. Civil servants and other sources close to the cabinet, who wished to keep their anonymity, provide their sometimes withering reflections. The book also contains visceral criticisms of several ministers about the treatment of Ireland at the hands of Jean-Claude Trichet of the European Central Bank and Dominic Strauss-Kahn of the International Monetary Fund.

Hell at the Gates published by Mercier Press is available nationwide and online. RRP €16.99.