If we barred American troops, serious tax measures could be taken in the US to persuade, induce or compel American companies investing abroad to transfer their profits in such a way that their host countries do not benefit. In that case, American businessmen and capital would begin to look at Ireland as hostile territory. They do not just look at the 12.5% tax rate which exists today – they are here for the long haul, as they frequently tell us. However, they will not remain if they see a change in our policy which is anti-American in economic terms and they can hit us back where it hurts. The two issues are human life – which is the most important and compelling – and the economy, which is also important. I suggest that, by kicking the Americans in the teeth, we would damage the economy without compensating by saving any lives in Iraq.