ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the dynamics of urban change in Ireland, particularly during the 1990s and the experience of rapid economic growth. The traditional local government system in Ireland, compared to other European states, is relatively weak with a more limited range of functions and powers. Partnerships have become widely established as a delivery mechanism for local development policy, encompassing membership of public, private and community sectors interests. The issue of citizen participation in local government, the relationship between local government and local development partnerships, and the lack of coordination of local development activities, has led Government to introduce a number of measures to address these concerns. The commitment for reform of local government in the Department of Environment and Local Government in the Republic of Ireland, produced the White Paper, 'Better Local Government, A Programme for Change'.
