This is a rather long read, but well argued and without moralising overtones.
http://charleswlhill.blogspot.co.uk/...-demand_1.html
As with much of economics, it's rather theoretical and makes some assumptions—though these seem to be sensible. There's a complicated looking graph, but read what he says, and it becomes much clearer.
His conclusion: "end demand" strategies (the "Swedish Model") not only don't work but are likely to have unintended consequences.
But, would politicians in Ireland understand it and take it on board?