Aspirations and Realities : A Documentary History of Economic Development Policy in Ireland since 1922 by James L., Finnegan, Richard B. Wiles

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.