ABSTRACT
This chapter concentrates on the structures and processes of policymaking and administration within Northern Ireland since 1972. It begins with a description of the formal institutional structures of policymaking and service delivery. The chapter discusses the nature of the policymaking system using the themes of policy variation and accountability. It is concerned with public expenditure, fair employment/fair treatment, and European Union (EU) issues. The chapter discusses the future development of the policy machinery and considers the processes in the light of proposals for greater cooperation between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The (Northern Ireland Office) NIO is responsible for a range of specific functions, many of a "high" policy nature. These include law and order, prisons, political and constitutional policy and international matters affecting Northern Ireland, including relations with the Republic of Ireland. The key constituent components of the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) established in 1921 were six functional ministries plus a prime minister's department.
