Short description:

Originally published in 1968, the book is mainly concerned with Local Government; with the changing pattern and hierarchy of administrative areas and, in the mid-20^th century, with the particular problems posed by the conurbations. 

Long description:

At the time of the publication of this book in its fourth edition in 1969, Ireland was alone globally in having experienced a decline of population for more than a century. National movements in Wales and Scotland made the story of the Irish Republic’s first fifty years increasingly interesting. Traditional and conservative as Ireland’s life may have seemed in the late 20^th Century it had changed considerably since 1921. Like much of Western Europe it continues to share the experience of a declining number of agricultural workers and its government, like that of many other countries is concerned with the problem of industrial growth. The book analyses the physical environment and the life of 20^th century Ireland whilst it was in the throes of an economic revolution.

Original Review of Geography and Regional Administration:

‘…this is a very useful, concise treatment…The appraisal of the voluminous source material has been a major task and has produced a clear narrative with a wealth of general information and a wide range of detailed examples.’ Norman R. Elliott, Scottish Geographical Magazine, Volume 85, Issue 2 (1969).

Table of Contents:

1.Aspects of Local Government 2. Boroughs of the 1830s 3. Town and Country from the 1850s 4. Counties and County Boroughs 5. The Local Government Commission of 1958 6. The Special Problem of London 7. Places and People.