Everything from Ireland’s international reputation and standing in Europe, not to mention the credibility of its industrial policy, was put under a spotlight as a result of the August 2016 ruling by the European Commission.  The Irish government is not turning down €13 billion plus interest, as some claim. It is asserting that all taxpayers in the state are treated equally under the law. It went to court to vindicate that position. The state could not do otherwise. Not to join Apple in an appeal was to agree with Ireland’s greatest detractors that we do, indeed, offer up state aid…