Research and Policy: A Northern Ireland Perspective

Abstract

Examples of social research having a direct influence on public policy are rare. One such example drawn from Northern Ireland is described in this paper. The case study is located in the particular political and constitutional circumstances of Northern Ireland in the United Kingdom and the role that social research can play is discussed. It is suggested that sensitivity to political realities and awareness of divisions between government departments and agencies can often determine the influence research may have on policy matters.