This book offers a portrait of Brian Cowen compiled from speeches, statements, quips and anecdotes from the Dail. This book is based on a study of Cowen's performance and statements in the Dail since 1984. From his early work as a constituency politician, through parliamentary debates, it looks at how leading figures in the 1980s often tried to dismiss him as a 'young lad' during debates and his efforts to establish himself. Taking his most memorable quips and contributions to debates, and examining his policies and statements across agriculture, health and foreign affairs, throughout his career from backbencher to Taoiseach, this biography assesses how he sees the issues and presents himself at a time when his views have become the most important ones in the country. With accounts covering Lisbon and the current economic crisis Brian Cowen: In His Own Words tells the real story of our Taoiseach.