Exploiting the opportunities of EU membership : the contrasting experiences of Greece and Ireland

Abstract

In this dissertation I will look at the contrasting experiences of Greece and Ireland. Ireland's economic growth performance in recent years has been the focus of several researchers. Ireland's membership of the EU, its public policy and foreign direct investment have been identified as the key drivers of the Celtic Tiger. Similarly, there has been much debate about the factors that hindered Greece from fully exploiting the opportunities presented by membership. When Ireland joined the European Union in 1973 it was one of the poorest members. The early years of EU membership were difficult yet the painful economic reforms of the late 1980's led to a dramatic turnaround. Today it is one of the most prosperous member states. Ireland's economic performance over the last decade has been nothing short of spectacular. I will endeavour to explain the strategy behind this accomplishment. The social pact, the effective use of EU regional aid and good governance will be discussed in this context.