Although rooted in simple ideas of representation and accountability, modern systems of government are increasingly complex for both public servants and the public to understand. Government in Modern Ireland addresses this problem by examining the institutions and principal processes involved in contemporary Irish government and public administration and presenting them in a concise and simple manner.
The book illuminates the inner and outer reaches of government and how they interact, thus providing an invaluable reference tool at a time when the public service is moving towards enhanced interconnection and integration. It also considers recent developments and reforms across the public service in Ireland, North and South.
Chapters include: The Constitution of Ireland, The Office of the President, Dáil Éireann, The Government, The Civil Service, State Agencies, State Enterprises, Local Government, The Health Services, The Education System, Justice and the Courts, An Garda Síochána, The Defence Forces, Northern Ireland, and the EU.
Government in Modern Ireland provides essential reading for students of public administration and management and for established and new recruits to the public service. It will also be of interest to the general reader who is interested in understanding.