Oireachtas Glossary Flashcards
Bill
A draft of new law that has not yet been passed by the Oireachtas
Budget
The governments annual financial plan
Bunreacht na hÉireann
The Irish constitution
Cathaoirleach
Chairperson of Seanad Éireann (Senate)
Ceann Comhairle
The Chairperson of Dáil Éireann who chairs the proceedings and makes sure that all TDs are treated fairly and that the rules of the house are followed
Comptroller and auditor general
The person selected by Dáil Éireann to provide independent assurance that public money is properly managed and spent to good effect
Council of state
The group of past Taoisigh (Prime Ministers), Presidents, Chief Justices, the Ceann Comhairle, the Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, the Attorney General and people appointed by the President which advises the President
Dáil Éireann
Known as the Dáil for short. The Dáil is the House of Representatives
Dissolution
An action by the President to end the current term of the Dáil so a general election can be held
Green paper
A discussion document which sets out the Governments ideas and invites comment and views from individuals and relevant organisations
Joint committee
A select committee from the Dáil and Seanad who meet together
Junior minister/minister of state
A Member appointed by the Taoiseach to help a Minister of a Government Department. Officially called a Minister of State
Member
A member of either House of the Oireachtas
Minister
A member of the government who manages a Department
Oireachtas
The national parliament of Ireland which consists of the President, Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann
Order paper
Document which sets out the business before each house
Seanad Éireann
Known as the Seanad for short or the Senate
Select committee
A committee consisting of only members of the Dáil or the Seanad only
Senator
A member of Seanad Éireann
Standing orders
Rules of either Dáil Éireann or Seanad Éireann
TD (or deputy)
Teachta Dála, directly translates as messenger to the Dáil
Tánaiste
Irish deputy prime minister
Taoiseach
The head of the Irish government (prime minister of Ireland)
Amendment
A change to the detail of a proposed law
