Public Policies and the Economic Community

Aim:
To introduce students to the use of public sector policies in a local community.

Objective
At the end of the module students will:
* understand current economic and public sector policies in this country;
* be able to critically assess the implications of public policy on economic life;
* be able to suggest ways in which communities can participate in the formulation
and influencing of public policies;
* understand some of the problems in changing public and economic policies.

Content:
An examination of economic theories and social policy in this country. Mechanisms for the institution and change of public and economic policy. Factors affecting the ways in which a population recognise and make use of public policies. An examination of possible ways in which a local community can influence and contribute to public policy. A critical examination of the role of public policy as an enablement and not a restriction, with particular reference to the benefits and constraints of public policy for economic welfare and involvement at local and national level. Assistance available for economic development, e.g. grants, incentives, low interest loans.