IRELAND

Most electoral procedures in Ireland are fair. A mandatory yet persistently inaccurate voter registration system has drawn criticism.

Press freedom is well-respected, although some government information is not accessible to the public. Civil rights are well-protected, and the judiciary is independent.

Recent years have seen a sharp increase in rules aimed at discouraging political corruption.

Ireland's economy was radically transformed during the recent boom, with unemployment dropping to record lows.

Low taxes, employment subsidies, and government assistance have helped fuel investment and spur entrepreneurial innovation.

The strong economy facilitated budgetary surpluses, although deficits will likely return as growth slows.

Growth in social expenditure and rising employment levels have lifted many in Ireland out of poverty. However, the benefits of economic growth were not spread evenly.

Health care is free for low-income individuals, but nearly half of the population uses private care.

Women are underrepresented in politics and business leadership positions. Recent reforms gave more support to two-career families.

The public-private pension system does not prevent old-age poverty.

Close relationships with the United States and the UK allow Ireland to maintain formal neutrality and minimize defense expenditure.

The terrorist threat that once represented the country's greatest security threat has now diminished.

Immigration rates jumped during the economic boom, challenging integration policy. Some segregation and discrimination have resulted.

Although focused on economic rather than environmental concerns, Irish policymakers have largely abided by EU environmental policy requirements.

Governments have sought to transform the country into a knowledge-based economy, resulting in significant increases in R&D funding.

Student test scores are average for the OECD, and educational funding has increased in recent years.

Strategic planning in Ireland follows a neo-corporatist approach. Governments work closely with social groups to develop long-range economic and social plans.

The Department of the Taoiseach plays a strong role in coordinating government activities.

A comprehensive RIA system was introduced in 2005.

Cabinet members are required to give public support to the government's positions.

During the period under review, the parliament adopted more than 90 percent of government-sponsored proposals.

The Senate, president and Supreme Court have only limited veto powers.

The political and economic environment in recent years has smoothed the government's realization of its objectives.

European Union membership has spurred Ireland's primary adaptations to international developments.

The country has implemented EU legislation across all government departments.

Ireland's economic success led new EU member states to study its taxation and labor market policies.

The Irish political system does not have regular or consistent self-monitoring mechanisms. However, reforms are carried out when obvious needs arise.

Government institutions have been highly stable, but some efforts to improve the government's strategic capacity have been made.

Irish citizens are well informed and unusually interested in politics, with public and private broadcasters covering political issues.

The doctrine of cabinet confidentiality makes parliamentary oversight of the executive difficult.

Party platforms are generally plausible. Interest groups are closely involved in policy-making, and make reasonable proposals.