Answer
Cowen retired from politics in 2011. He had been the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland from 2008 to 2011. His term in office was marked by the global financial crisis and the subsequent economic recession in Ireland. Cowen was criticised for his handling of the crisis and his government's decision to guarantee the debts of the country's banks. He resigned as Taoiseach in 2011 and was succeeded by Enda Kenny.