ABSTRACT
This chapter explores some of the reasons for the persistence of serious social inequalities in Irish society, and outlines some of the reasons why we might have expected inequalities to be tackled and redressed effectively. The chapter analyzes some of the dimensions of social inequality which have remained very much in evidence. The inclusion of a more diverse range of interests in the national-level talks leading to Partnership 2000 mirrored other developments that had been taking place at local or community level. Within the context of the social partnership agreements, the trade union movement took part in promoting the interests of the least advantaged. The chapter argues that we may find at least part of the explanation for the relative lack of progress in redressing the inequalities may be found in a closer analysis of the patterns of interest representation, in the form of both party politics and interest group activity.
