ABSTRACT
This chapter provides Ireland profiles which includes key information about the relevant corporate sustainability and responsibility (CSR) history, country-specific issues, trends, research, education and leading organizations. There are two main elements that need to be considered when analysing the development and status of CSR in Ireland: the historical context and heritage, and the role of multinational enterprises in developing CSR. There has always been a strong sense of philanthropy and social justice in Ireland, perhaps due to its political history of division and conflict. CSR communications are not as developed in Ireland as in other mature CSR countries, with notable exceptions and a concrete commitment to improve practice in this area. Energy sources in Ireland are scarce, and companies rely mainly on imported energy, with the serious threat in terms of security of supply that accompanies such reliance. Given the major economic challenges expected in Ireland, the Irish business community needs to be prepared for economic recovery.
