Europeanised policy making in Ireland
In this chapter the influence of the European Union (EU) on the policy making process and policy analysis in Ireland is examined. The country’s EU membership has been marked by periods of volatility, with support for the institution wavering at times. Membership has aided Ireland’s global positioning and ability to cope with international competition, but has also constrained the policy analysis process as autonomous action by national actors can be limited by legal commitments to EU membership. Also, policy initiatives emanating from the EU have sometimes challenged conservative domestic constituencies. The chapter provides a pair of case studies to demonstrate a variety of Europeanisation effects across the Irish policy analysis spectrum. Being part of the EU has produced distinct patterns of adaptation and contestation at the domestic level. The consequences of EU membership have been both expansive and comprehensive, impacting on a myriad of domestic issues, sectors and policies.