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Reassessing Ireland’s economic development through the lens of sustainable development
[Sustainability and the measurement of wealth]

Author

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  • Luke Mcgrath
  • Stephen Hynes
  • John Mchale

Abstract

After a century of Irish independence, this study constructs long run Genuine Savings estimates, a leading economic indicator of sustainable development, to reassess Irish economic history from the vantage of sustainable development. The main difference uncovered surrounds the post-1950 period where Ireland failed to achieve economic convergence and was considered an economic failure in growth terms. From a sustainability perspective, Ireland may have been an overachiever during a “great transition” of sustainable development driven by improved institutions and policies. The findings show the value of the sustainable development perspective in shedding new light on a country’s development experience.

Suggested Citation

  • Luke Mcgrath & Stephen Hynes & John Mchale, 2022. "Reassessing Ireland’s economic development through the lens of sustainable development [Sustainability and the measurement of wealth]," European Review of Economic History, European Historical Economics Society, vol. 26(3), pages 399-422.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:ereveh:v:26:y:2022:i:3:p:399-422.
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