Political Conflict, Partition, and the Underdevelopment of the Irish Economy
This paper argues that the partition of Ireland has not only contributed to over seventy years of political instability and conflict, but has also contributed to the underdevelopment of the Irish economy, North and South. The paper examines the historical development of the Irish economy with particular reference to models of dependent development and the economic costs of partition. The paper concludes by suggesting alternative development strategies. It is argued that such strategies would provide a mechanism for challenging deeply embedded class and power relations, and the economic vulnerability generated by development strategies based on the attraction of global capital.
Female Employment and Export-led Development in Ireland: Labour Market Impact of State-reinforced Gender Inequality in the Household
This paper examines the relation between women’s participation in the wage economy and household relations in the context of an export-led development strategy and international investment in the Republic of Ireland (hereafter referred to as Ireland).
The Public Policy Effects of Independence: Ireland as a Test Case*
Two mutually exclusive theories of the effects of independence upon public policy exist: the nationalist hypothesis predicts the adoption of many distinctive policies, whereas the external determination hypo thesis, advanced by functional and Marxist writers, suggests that independence makes little practical difference to policies. These competing theories are tested by an examination of Ireland since it became independent of Britain in 1921. Three distinctive periods are covered: that of the consolidation of the regime, a subsequent era of nationalist activism in government, and the present era, emphasizing economic development. Three separate policy domains are examined: the state's defining concern with foreign affairs, law and order, taxation, national identity and representation; the mobilization of economic resources; and the provision of welfare services. In all domains and periods independence has a major effect upon public policies. This is not only a consequence of nationalist ideological aspirations but is also because the institutionalization of a regime gives politicians both incentives and opportunities to pursue national interests, and to respond distinctively to common problems of contemporary government.