REPRESENTATION Flashcards
What is representation?
to present the views of particular groups or certain people in order to try and achieve a purpose.
Ways that MLA’s represent?
1- being at their constituency every Friday.
2- speeches, debates, meetins
3- proposing amendments to bills
4- the introduction of PMBS
5- questioning ministers
6- presenting petitions on behalf of groups.
How can questions be conveyed?
oral or written
When are questions asked?
during question time.
Why do MLA’s have an office in their constituencies?
to keep in touch with local opinion
What is a ‘constituency surgery’?
providing advice and problem solving service for constituents. allows MLA to solve problems and address concerns.
What is a plenary session?
where major statements are made and broad ranging debate may be held and where all decisions by the conference aren taken.
How do MLA’s communicate?
email, phone, meetings, letters and social media.
How do MLA’s represent constituents in the committee?
1- scrutinising bills
2- proposing amendments
3- conducting inquires into issues
4-discussing and writing committee reports
5-inviting outside groups with key knowledge and expertise to present evidence and keep members fully informed about issues.
MLA’s and all party groups;
MLA’s often join all party group with something that they are specifically interest in.
How many women are in the Northern Ireland assembly?
1/3 = 35
What is a code of conduct?
a set of guidelines or principles that outline expected behaviour and ethical standards within and organisation.
Argument that MLA’S are good at representation?
1- Opposition allows alternative views
2- PMBs are relatively frequent, MLA;s representing views of constituents.
3- opportunities for oral or written questions for MLA’s during question time.
4- on Fridays, MLA’s able to be in their office.
4- STV relatively represents the people of NI’s views.
Argument that MLA’s are bad at representation?
1-women are underrepresented (only 1/3)
2- rick Wilford argues that there is a lack of independent mindedness within the assembly and that MLA’s simply follow the party line.
