This paper offers a historical perspective on government policies for the rationalisation of higher education (HE) in Ireland through a critical re-appraisal of the initiative for "merger" of Trinity College and University College Dublin. The initiative launched by Donogh O'Malley in 1967 was the first significant attempt by an Irish…

The ideal of equality of opportunity in education remains elusive, and the nation, by most indices, has lost ground to its economic peers. (DF)

Provides information regarding recent administrative budgetary decisions for 1982 to support basic research in the universities from Department of Defense (DOD) monies. Discusses the concern that research and training programs on campuses remain unclassified, even though DOD monies fund the programs. (CS)

Describes the financial crises in colleges and universities caused by the enactment of federal social legislation, such as equal employment opportunity provisions, the Equal Pay Act, minimum wage law, unemployment insurance, and affirmative action programs. (MLH)

Discusses the recent increases in funding to the science and engineering directorate at the National Science Foundation. Credits the resurgence to the United States Congress. Questions how long the rise in the science education budget will be maintained. (TW)