Democracy Flashcards
Explain Greeces direct democracy
This meant that all citizens had a direct say in how the country was run. This w as possible because of low population and all of the citizens would meet and state their opinions
Explain representing democracy
When public elect representatives to run the country
What rights do I have in a democratic state
Right to be treated equally Freedom of expression and you opinions Right to criticise your government Right to vote Right to run for election Right to equality before the law Right to practice a religion Right to join associations
Explain the term minority rules and minority rights
This means that the majority will make the decisions but the opinions and thoughts of the minority are respected and thought about.
Explain authoritarian rule
Under this rule people don’t possess the freedoms and rights we have in a democratic rule. Examples include countries under dictator or military rule. Often people are not allowed critics the government or join certain organisations
Explain democracy
It the form of government that Ireland are under today where the public get to elect representatives to run the country but the people always have a say
What is a democratic community
A community where all members are entitled to participation, make decisions or elect people to do it on their behalf
What is the Irish constitution called
Bunreacht na hÉireann
What are the four things Bunreacht na hÉireann outlines
How Ireland is governed
Key laws of the state
Roles and Powers of key political figures
Rights we are entitled to as Irish citizens
How can the Irish government change the constitution
By holding s referendum where the public can say yes or no to the change. Majority rules
Give two examples of referendums
Divorce referendum (1995)- Ban on divorce placed by Éamon Devalera was lifted Gay marriage referendum (2015) - same gender are now allowed to marry
What is the Oireachtas
This Irelands national parliament
Consists of : the president
The dáil
The Seanad
The main function of the Oireachtas is to govern the country and make laws on behalf of the Irish citizensWhat is the job of the president. What does this person have to do
Safeguarding our constitution
Signing bills into law
Makes sure laws do not abuse the rights of Irish citizens
Commander in chief of defence forces
Representing Ireland abroad
Giving new ministers their seal of office
What is the Dáil
The dáil sits in Leinster house. It consists of 166 TDs. Each of irelands fourth three constituencies elect four or five TDs into government
What are the functions of the dáil
To make new laws
To advise government on social, economic and financial life of the country
To debate issues of the day
To make decisions on behalf of the Irish citizens
Who is the ceann comhairle
This is a person who chairs dáil meetings and keeps order
What is the role of the TD
The teachta dála play a very important role in the government as they represent their constituencies in the meetings.
What are the Seanad and what is their role
This is irelands senate, the Seanad consists of 60 senators, elected by the Taoiseach, universities and other panels
The senate :
Consider and review proposed laws form the government but they also have the power to suggest new laws.
What are the main functions of the government
Make new laws
Manage financial affairs of the state
Manage economy
Manage social affairs of the Irish people,
Overseeing improvement of essential services
Planning for future
Forging links with other countries
Explain coalition government
If one party does not receive the majority of votes (51%) in a general election then two parties can Join together to run the country and this is a coalition government
What is the cabinet
The cabinet consists of the Taoiseach the táinaiste and the principal government ministers. There may be no more than fifteen members. Each member of the cabinet is responsible for a particular section of the government. In the cabinet there is a collective responsibility
what is the Taoiseach
The prime minister of the Irish state. Elected by the dáil
What are the Taoiseach’s job
Provide leadership Control government business Appoints and dismisses cabinet ministers Chairs cabinet meetings Decides when a general elections are Nominates senators Meets with world leaders Defends government decisions
Who is the tánaiste
The deputy prime minister
What does the department of finance do
Responsible for financial affairs of country and prepare budget each year
What are the department for social and family affairs responsible for
The social welfare needs for different groups of the society
What are the department of health and children responsible for
The provision of our health service. They promote healthy living and care especially for children’s needs
Swear are the department of education and science responsible for
Looks after primary, post primary and third level education in Ireland
What are the department of justice equality and law responsible for
to uphold and enforce laws of the state and they are responsible for gardaí, courts and jail service
Explain the Cathaoirleach
The Cathaoirleach is the sole judge of order and calls on members to speak in the Seanad. All speeches must be addressed to the Chair.
