Richard B Finnegan

In one generation, modern Ireland has experienced rapid political, economic, and social transformation. Every aspect of Irish life and public policy has changed. Ireland: Historical Echoes, Contemporary Politics charts and explains the facets of that change--including the nation's economic development strategy, the education revolution, Irish langu

This book examines a number of different interpretations and explanations in the context of historical change, as the Irish grappled with the questions of political independence, economic autonomy, the decline of provincialism, the rise of pluralism, and the unsolved conundrum of Irish nationhood.

Focusing on the period since Irish independence, this documentary history provides a record of the policies the Irish government has followed to encourage economic growth, thereby providing access to the official record for readers in this country. Particular attention has been given to the planning period, which began in 1958.An introductory chapter provides an overview of British economic policy during the period of British control from 1800 to 1922. Included from the seventy year span, 1922-1990, are reports of Banking Commissions, Commissions on Agriculture, Fiscal Policy, Reports of Committees on Taxation, Tourism, Emigration and the use of Capital Investment. The First, Second, and Third Programmes of the 1960s are included. The Marshall Plan and entry into Europe are covered as well as the six major plans offered by the government in the 1970s and 1980s. The volume also includes a bibliography and index.