As part of a larger study of the European Community (EC) initiatives and their effect on higher education policies and policy-making in all member countries, this case study examines EC impact on higher education in Ireland. Ireland was chosen as a possible example of how EC will impact higher education as it is one of four countries expected to be net beneficiaries of EC funds. Ireland has already received 5 billion Irish pounds (1989 to 1994) and expects to receive 7.8 billion more between 1994 and 1999. The study used qualitative methods to gather information in interviews with senior government officials, the national higher education governance board, and relevant people at most of the campuses of the national system of higher education. During the decades since the 1950s dramatic increases in the numbers of Irish individuals attending secondary and higher education have occurred especially since joining the EC in 1974. This extraordinary change would not have been possible without EC membership which made it financially feasible. In all universities in Ireland there is widespread knowledge of various EC educational programs and participation in these programs has had various impacts. Both direct and indirect effects on curriculum and faculty were found. Overall, there have been changes in funding patterns that have led to the reshaping and recomposition of the entire higher education system. (Contains seven references.) (JB)