This profile of 16 leading Irish entrepreneurs begins with a wide-ranging introduction highlighting some of the main movements that began towards the end of the 19th century - the GAA, Gaelic League and what became known as the Irish literary revival - and the huge impact they had on attitudes. John Travers stresses the influence of these forces in forging a spirit of cultural vitality leading, among other things, to the foundation of the State.
More recently we have seen a transformation in the attitudes of another generation, which has created unprecedented prosperity. Travers calls this Irish enterprise spirit.
The Irish had always demonstrated entrepreneurial skill in the various countries to which they emigrated. Although we effectively missed out on two industrial revolutions, Travers says we can play a full part in the third - to be characterised by information technology and a new economy that transcends the limits of geography and physical assets.
Attitude, confidence and the jettisoning of inhibitions arising from fear of failure feature in these interviews with leading businessmen and women. Tyrone Productions director Moya Doherty says the Riverdance phenomenon grew out of a period of optimism where people were more comfortable about Irish culture.
Training and education loom large among the concerns of the business leaders in Driving The Tiger. Esat founder Denis O'Brien argues that teachers are as important as doctors and should be paid accordingly.
Travers believes the economy can survive the slowdown in the US and in the information sector, but this optimistic assessment was made before the attacks in the US, and their devastating impact on aviation and tourism here and the global economy in general.
Chris Horn of Iona Technologies notes that transportation and labour costs have been rising, and points to the increasing need for skilled workers. Trintech chairman Cyril McGuire says inflation and skills shortages clearly indicate overstretching in the economy.
Other business leaders profiled include band manager Louis Walsh, fashion designer Louise Kennedy, Aer Arann managing director Pβdraig ╙ CΘidigh and Ireland.com chief operating officer Mary Mangan, who warns that women have to have a hard neck to crack the old boys' network.
Driving The Tiger may be a little too upbeat in its assessments but it is accessible and illuminating.
jmulqueen@irish-times.ie
