TWICE THE SIZE - DIT Update - Dublin Institute of Technology

and, as a result, substantial progress has been made in such areas as social affairs and
environmental protection.
What is known as the “partner state” approach has also changed the attitude of the public
authorities to the world of business. A strongly proactive approach towards investment in
research and development has been most beneficial to Europe’s competitiveness, especially in
the knowledge-related industries. Judging by the steady growth in foreign investment, the
“European Way” of a higher involvement of the state and reliance on consultation and consensus
building, is well perceived from outside as its leads to “win-win” solutions not otherwise
attainable.
Costs, however, are rising again, and complacency setting-in. A federalised China now
competes aggressively in high-value markets, as does India in technology and biomedical
sectors. The US is developing a more multi-lateral and co-operative approach to world affairs.
And Russia is making a strong comeback to the international stage. Europe will need
imagination and energy to maintain its position in the world economy, and its 36 members will
have to ensure that increasing bureaucracy does not stifle competitiveness.
IRELAND
Stable economic conditions, founded on a commitment to innovation and international
competition in most sectors, have enabled the Irish to enjoy a good standard of living ever since
the turn of the century, despite greater policy intervention in both civic affairs and the market.
Technological development is driven by user needs and geared towards eco-efficiency. While
agriculture and resource intensive sectors have declined, there has been a strong growth of
services and high-tech industries offering low environmental impact and high social value.
Nevertheless, there are two distinct societies living side-by-side – the “knowledge” society of
the towns and cities, and the “wisdom” society of the rural areas. The former is characterised
by a high mobility of labour, collaboration with European systems of education and training, and
great connectivity with the world’s commercial networks and financial markets. The latter is
renowned for its access to nature, leisure pursuits and healthy living, as well as the state
supported communities of scholars, poets, artists and musicians. Irish people provisions for
variety of lifestyle and economic opportunities for all.
As part of a commitment to balanced economic and social development, major flows of
capital, technological expertise and aid in capacity building lean Ireland towards the south of
the globe.
People
While the period from 2010 to around 2020 witnessed intermittent clashes between the two
main ideologies in Ireland – colloquially called the “tekkies” and the “chartists” – there has
always been a common agreement throughout society that the prime civic priority should be
good order in public life. “Efficient” and “effective” pull the majority of votes at any election.
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