(NEW) Democracy And Christmas Exam 2017 Flashcards
What is democracy?
Democracy is a form of government and the way we run our country in Ireland. It is government of the people, by the people, for the people
Representative Democracy
Where representatives are elected to run things on the behalf of the people
The Irish constitution
Bunreacht na hÉireann
The name given to Ireland’s national parliment
Oireachtas
What does the Oireachtas consist of?
- The President
- Dáil Éireann
- The Seanad
Main function of the Oireactas
To govern the country and make laws on behalf of its citizens
The Irish President
Uachtaráin na hÉireann. Ireland’s Head Of State.
The length of a presidential term
Seven years
Roles of The President
- Safeguarding our constitution
- Signing bills so they become law
- Ensuring new laws do not infringe on the rights of Irish citizens
- Commander-In-Chief of Defence Forces
- Giving new ministers their seal of office
Roles of the Irish parliament
- Make new laws
- Govern the country
Location of the Dáil
Leinster House
Name of The Dáil’s elected representatives
TDs (Teachta Dála)
Number of TDs
158
Areas Ireland is divided into for election purposes
Constituencies
Number of constituencies
43
Main functions of the Dáil
- Make/pass new laws
- To advise the government
- To debate issues
- To make decisions
Ceann Comhairle
Chairs Dáil proceedings
Role of a TD
Represent the interests of people living in their constituencies
Main role of the Seanad
To consider and review bills (proposed laws)
Basic role of the government
To run the affairs of its state
How is the government decided?
A general election
Coalition Government
If a party does not receive majority vote, it may invite other parties to join with it to form a government
Main functions of the government
- Making new laws
- Managing financial affairs
- Managing the economy
- Managing the social affairs of the people of the state (Payments to people of the state)
- Improvement of essential services
- Planning for future
- Forging links with other countries
The Cabinet
The Taoiseach, Tánaiste and principal government ministers are often referred to as the Cabinet
Collective Responsibility
Members of the cabinet must all speak with one voice and stand together on policy matters
The Taoiseach
Is the Prime Minister of the Irish state. Elected by the Dáil.
Roles of the Taoiseach
- Provides leadership
- Controls government business
- Appoints and dismisses cabinet ministers
See page 99 of the book for more roles
Department of Finance
Responsible for Financial affairs of the country. Prepares budget.
Department of Social and Family Affairs
Social welfare needs of various sectors of society
The Department of Health and Children
Responsible for the provision of our health service
