Richard Wilford – författare

This edited collection assembles leading experts on the politics and constitution of Northern Ireland to explore and analyse aspects of the 1998 Belfast Agreement. For most the Agreement represented an inclusive political bargain, while others perceived it as an act of betrayal - whether of the Union or, conversely, of republicanism. These rival interpretations are discussed by a number of the contributors, alongside assessments of the roles performed by key actors both within and outside Northern Ireland in forging the Agreement. The more immediate provenance of the Agreement is complemented by a comparison with its often cited predecessor, the 1973 Sunningdale Agreement, and the former's 'consociational plus' design is explained while its legislative implementation is set within the context of cross-cutting constitutionalism ushered in by the UK's wider devolution process.The collection also includes a discussion of the British-Irish Council, and the early operation of both the Executive Committee and the Assembly elected in 1998. The elections themselves suggested the emergence of an embryonic and fragile pro and anti-Agreement cleavage that transcended the orthodox ethno-nationalist division in Northern Ireland, and this proposition is subjected to analysis in the collection. Public and elite attitudes towards the Agreement in the Republic of Ireland are also discussed, as is the controversial report of the Patten Commission on the reform of the RUC.The acceptance of the consent principle by the Agreement's signatories and the open-ended constitutional future it bequeathes to Northern Ireland have created a form of devolution that is delicately poised. The delayed and faltering implementation of the 1998 Agreement suggests that its promise is yet to be fully realized. This collection, in focusing upon key aspects of the Agreement, seeks to explain both its complexity and some of the difficulties thus far encountered in putting it into effect.

This collection assembles leading experts on the politics and constitution of Northern Ireland to explore and analyse aspects of the 1998 Belfast Agreement. For most, the Agreement represented an inclusive political bargain, while others perceived it as an act of betrayal - whether of the Union or, conversely, of republicanism. These rival interpretations are discussed by a number of the contributors, alongside assessments of the roles performed by key actors both within and outside Northern Ireland in forging the Agreement. The more immediate provenance of the Agreement is complemented by a comparison with its often cited predecessor, the 1973 Sunningdale Agreement, and the former's 'consociational plus' design is explained, while its legislative implementation is set within the context of cross-cutting constitutionalism ushered in by the UK's wider devolution process. The collection also includes a discussion of the British-Irish Council, and the early operation of both the Executive Committee and the Assembly elected in 1998. The elections themselves suggested the emergence of an embryonic and fragile pro and anti-Agreement cleavage that transcended the orthodox ethno-nationlist division in Northern Ireland, and thos proposition is subjected to analysis in the collection. Public and elite attitudes towards the Agreement in the Republic of Ireland are also discussed, as is the controversial report of the Patten Commission on the reform of the RUC. The acceptance of the consent principle by the Agreement's signatories and the open-ended constitutional future it bequeathes to Northern Ireland have created a form of devolution that is delicately poised. The delayed and faltering implementation of the 1998 Agreement suggests that its promise is yet to be fully realized. This collection, in focusing upon key aspects of the Agreement, seeks to explain both its complexity and some of the difficulties thus far encountered in putting it into effect.

Now in its fourth edition, Political Ideologies: An Introduction continues to be the best introductory textbook for students of political ideologies. Completely revised and updated throughout, this edition features: A comprehensive introduction to all of the most important ideologies Brand new chapters on multiculturalism, anarchism, and the growing influence of religion on politics More contemporary examples of twenty-first-century iterations of liberalism, socialism, conservatism, fascism, green political theory, nationalism, and feminism Enhanced discussion of the end of ideology debates and emerging theories of ideological formation Six new contributors.Accessible and packed with both historical and contemporary examples, this is the most useful textbooks for scholars and students of political ideologies.The contributors to this volume have all taught or carried out research at the School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy of Queen’s University, Belfast, or have close research connections with the School.

Now in its fourth edition, Political Ideologies: An Introduction continues to be the best introductory textbook for students of political ideologies. Completely revised and updated throughout, this edition features: A comprehensive introduction to all of the most important ideologies Brand new chapters on multiculturalism, anarchism, and the growing influence of religion on politics More contemporary examples of twenty-first-century iterations of liberalism, socialism, conservatism, fascism, green political theory, nationalism, and feminism Enhanced discussion of the end of ideology debates and emerging theories of ideological formation Six new contributors.Accessible and packed with both historical and contemporary examples, this is the most useful textbooks for scholars and students of political ideologies.The contributors to this volume have all taught or carried out research at the School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy of Queen’s University, Belfast, or have close research connections with the School.

Perennials are amongst the most widely used garden staples. They are the largest group of garden plants and offer magnificent diversity for every location from sun to shade. This guide is a perfect mix of practical and giftable gardening reference for the entry level enthusiast who wants to find out more about perennials and wants to grow them successfully.Combining the authority and expertise of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew with beautiful artworks and practical advice, this is a giftable hardback for enthusiasts and beginners. Packed with information and inspiration, it covers a range of plants as well as vital information on soil, light and maintenance. Every plant’s needs are revealed so readers can succeed with 50 specimens and 12 easy to follow projects.

Fill your garden with colour by learning how to choose, plant and care for bulbs. From the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, this essential guide by bulb expert Richard Wilford is the ultimate companion for anyone looking to plant and enjoy bulbs throughout the year. Packed with 12 easy, inspiring projects and beautiful botanical illustrations,The Kew Gardener’s Guide to Growing Bulbs combines practical advice with creative ideas, part of the best-selling series of Kew Gardener’s Guides, now available in paperback. From winter snowdrops and crocuses to spring daffodils and tulips, summer lilies and agapanthus to autumn colchicum and amaryllis, this book covers everything you need to know, including:  Expert guidance on selecting and planting bulbs for year-round displays. Step-by-step projects, including creating a carpet of anemones, planning a three-month tulip display and making a cutting patch for bulbs. Detailed profiles of the most important bulb species. Tips on planting, care and aftercare to ensure long-lasting success. Whether you're an absolute beginner or looking to take your gardening to the next level, this handy guide ensures you will choose the best bulbs for your garden and grow them successfully.  This book is from the Kew Experts series, in which the top gardeners and botanical scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew offer up advice and information as well as suggesting handy projects on a range of gardening topics. Other titles available: Growing Herbs, Growing House Plants, Growing Fruit, Growing Trees, Growing Orchids, Growing Vegetables, Growing Roses, Growing Cacti and Succulents, Growing Perennials, Growing Shrubs, Growing Alpines.