| dc.description.abstract | Local government is an important service provider to the people of Ireland. It is also a key
component in the democratic structures of the State. However in comparison with other
countries, Ireland is seen as highly centralised and, consequently, Irish local authorities have a
very limited range of functions. Numerous government reports advocating for increased
decentralisation have not been implemented. As a result, many important public services
continue to be provided and managed by central government or its agencies, with limited local
accountability. The 2014 Local Government Reform Act sought to redress this situation by
empowering local authorities to lead local economic development. Having identified key
themes and concepts arising from a review of literature on decentralisation and sub-national
governance, this thesis elicits experiences and perceptions of the 2014 legislation. Data were
gathered through a series of semi-structured interviews. The research participants hold senior
positions in the public service and were closely involved in framing or delivering the new role
conferred on local authorities. The data from the research provide insights that add value to
what the literature suggests, but also question some of the perceived wisdoms about subnational
governance in Ireland. Notwithstanding their limited functions, local authorities enjoy
considerable autonomy and have used this to drive economic development. In essence, local
authorities demonstrate an ability to exert soft power in their interfacing with others. Chief
Executives emerge as key and powerful figures in this scenario. The research points to the need
for further operationalisation of key performance indicators in respect of local economic
development. | en_US |
