In a "Modest Proposal," what does Swift suggest in his proposal (on the surface)?

Swift, on the surface, suggests that in order to combat
poverty and famine in Ireland, the Irish should raise their children and sell them to
the landlords of Ireland as food. It would feed the destitute or could be considered a
delicacy for the wealthy. This proposal would help poverty and famine as well as control
the overpopulation that was hurting Irish families.

He
details what percentage of the population should be fed and at what age would be ideal
for consumption. He goes on to say that of course a certain percentage must not be sold
off in order to keep breeders available to raise the next generation of children for
consumption.

Of course, below the surface, the irony of the
title "A Modest Proposal" is quite obvious as this piece is not modest but rather
frightening and horrifying. It is a satirical commentary that showcases the oppressive
situation in Ireland.