Predictions for 2009?

[borntorum]

So, it's surely time for a thread on what people predict for 2009, mainly in the political sphere but also in culture, sport etc.

I'd appreciate if people could be vaguely realistic, and also if references to homosexualist lizard-king masons could be kept to a minimum that would be great, ta.

Anyway, politically, I don't see the current administration lasting another 365 days. Unless something dramatic happens, Cowen will not be Taoiseach for much longer, and his Tanaiste will go with him. I think that as the sense of national crisis increases in the New Year, and the general public will realise how serious things are, support will grow for a grand coalition-type arrangement. If FG ditch Kenny for Bruton, they may become the largest party in the next GE, whenever that may be. If they don't, we will have a stalemate.

More generally, I predict massive public sector protests and possible civil disruption when they are asked to make sacrifices. However, I don't forseee it leading to a general breakdown in society as most private sector people will not support them, and eventually they will have to back down.

Anyone else any ideas?

[Digout]

Meltdown followed by riots.

[pfkf]

Politcally, FG to overtake FF at local level for the first time, and to remain the larger European party.

Lisbon to passed.

FG to win a by-election.

Obama to be a disapointment.

A leadership challenge in FF.

The Greens to remain in power.

In terms of the economy,

Two budgets next year

Unemployment to hit 12%

Sporting

Harrington to win another major

Ireland to just qualify for the world cup

Spurs to win the league Cup again

and Obviously,
Dublin to win the All-Ireland

[Digout]

Spurs could not win an arguement, United to do a clean sweep

[borntorum]

and Obviously,
Dublin to win the All-Ireland

I did ask for vaguely realistic...

[stanley]

Bertie for the Joy by the end of the decade.

[Digout]

Bertie for the Joy by the end of the decade.

along with every lapdog that stood up on their hind legs yapping + defending him.

[Bom]

Obama will be subject to an assassination attempt (perhaps successful).

[Demotruk]

Euro will go beyond parity with the pound!

(I know, very daring bet..)

[Big Bobo]

Euro will go beyond parity with the pound!

(I know, very daring bet..)

Not very daring at all. Have you seen the latest exchange rates? Ireland is on the verge of a currency crisis.