In his paper presented at the ESRI/FFS "Budget Perspectives 2008" Conference, Philip Lane (IIIS/TCD) asks "What are the implications for fiscal policy of the current deceleration in output growth?" Over 2003-2006, total government spending and total tax revenues have grown markedly faster than...

Inequalities in educational outcomes over time are described. Patterns of educational expenditure are outlined, highlighting differences between and within the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors. Recent policy developments are explored which involve targeting spending on "disadvantaged"...