Revision as of 01:51, 24 February 2020 edit178.40.136.239 (talk) Rv insertion of incorrect wording← Previous edit |
Latest revision as of 19:14, 26 December 2024 edit undo68.150.205.46 (talk) →Elections: clarificationTag: Visual edit |
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{{Short description|House of representatives of the Oireachtas (Irish parliament)}} |
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{{about|the current Irish body|the historical legislatures|Dáil Éireann (Irish Republic)|and|Dáil Éireann (Irish Free State)}} |
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{{about|the current Irish body|the historical legislatures|Dáil Éireann (Irish Republic)|and|Dáil Éireann (Irish Free State)}} |
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{{Use Hiberno-English|date=May 2024}} |
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{{short description|Lower house of the Oireachtas (Irish parliament)}} |
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{{EngvarB|date=August 2014}} |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2024}} |
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{{Infobox legislature |
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{{Infobox legislature |
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|background_color = #08a04b |
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| name = Dáil Éireann |
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| name = Dáil Éireann |
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| native_name = Assembly of Ireland |
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| native_name = |
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| coa_pic = Oireachtas_logo.svg |
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| legislature = ] |
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| coa_res = 130px |
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| coa_pic = Dail Eireann logo 1.png |
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| session_room = Dáil Chamber.jpg |
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| coa_res = 260px |
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| house_type = Lower house |
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| coa_caption = |
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| body = Oireachtas |
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| house_type = ] of the ] |
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| houses = |
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| term_limits = None |
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| established = 29 December 1937 (]) |
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| preceded_by = ] |
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| succeeded_by = |
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| new_session = |
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| leader1_type = ] |
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| leader1_type = ] |
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| leader1 = ] |
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| leader1 = ] |
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| election1 = ] |
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| election1 = ] |
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| leader2_type = ] |
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| leader2_type = ] |
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| leader2 = ] {{small|(''acting'')}} |
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| leader2 = |
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| party2 = |
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| leader3_type = ] |
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| leader3 = TBA |
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| election2 = |
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<!-- |
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| leader4_type = ] |
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| leader4 = TBA |
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| leader3_type = ] |
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| leader5_type = ] |
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| leader3 = |
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| leader5 = TBA |
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| election3 = |
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| legislature = ] |
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| party3 = |
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| members = 160 |
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| leader4_type = ] |
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| structure1 = Dáil Éireann after 2020 GE.svg |
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| leader4 = |
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| structure1_res = 250px |
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| election4 = |
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| party4 = |
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| political_groups1 = |
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| leader5_type = ] |
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:{{Color box|{{Fianna Fáil/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (37) |
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| leader5 = |
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:{{Color box|{{Sinn Féin/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (37) |
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| party5 = |
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:{{Color box|{{Fine Gael/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (35) |
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| election5 = |
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:{{Color box|{{Green Party (Ireland)/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (12) |
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| leader6_type = ] |
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:{{Color box|{{Labour Party (Ireland)/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (6) |
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| leader6 = |
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:{{nowrap|{{Color box|{{Social Democrats (Ireland)/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (6)}} |
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| party6 = |
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:{{nowrap|{{Color box|{{Solidarity–People Before Profit/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ]}} (5) |
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| election6 = |
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:{{Color box|{{Aontú/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (1) |
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| leader7_type = ] |
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:{{Color box|{{Independents 4 Change/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (1) |
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| leader7 = |
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:{{Color box|{{Independent politician/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} ] (19) |
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| party7 = |
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| election7 = |
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| leader8_type = |
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| leader8 = |
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| party8 = |
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| election8 = --> |
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| members = 174{{efn|Previously 160, changed by ].}} |
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|house1 = |
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|structure1 = Dáil Éireann after 2024 GE.svg |
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|structure1_res = 250px |
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|political_groups1 = '''Current Composition''' |
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:{{Party index link|Fianna Fáil|border=darkgray}} (48) |
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:{{Party index link|Sinn Féin|border=darkgray}} (39) |
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:{{Party index link|Fine Gael|border=darkgray}} (38) |
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:{{Party index link|Labour Party (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (11) |
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:{{Party index link|Social Democrats (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (10) |
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:{{color box|808080|border=silver}} ] (11) |
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::{{Party index link|Independent politician (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (9) |
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::{{Party index link|Aontú|border=darkgray}} (2) |
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:{{color box|CCCCCC|border=silver}} ] (7) |
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::{{Party index link|Independent Ireland|border=darkgray}} (4) |
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::{{Party index link|Independent politician (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (3) |
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:{{color box|CCCCCC|border=silver}} ] (7) |
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::{{Party index link|People Before Profit–Solidarity|border=darkgray}} (3) |
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::{{Party index link|100% Redress|border=darkgray}} (]) |
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::{{Party index link|Independent politician (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (3){{efn|group=ge20|Includes ] who is a member of the ] party but was elected as a non-party/independent candidate.}} |
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:{{Party index link|Green Party (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (]) |
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:{{Party index link|Independent politician (Ireland)|border=darkgray}} (2) |
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;] |
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;] |
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:{{Color box|{{Ceann Comhairle/meta/color}}|border=darkgray}} (1) |
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:{{Color box|Black}} ] (1) |
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| committees1 = {{Collapsible list|title = ''']''' |
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| voting_system1 = ] |
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| framestyle = background: transparent; border: 0; padding: 0; text-align: right; font-weight: normal; white-space: nowrap; |
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| last_election1 = ] |
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| titlestyle = background: transparent; border: 0; padding: 0; text-align: left; font-weight: normal; white-space: nowrap; |
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| next_election1 = Next |
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| bullets = true |
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| meeting_place = Dáil chamber<br/>], ] |
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| Business |
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| website = {{URL|oireachtas.ie}} |
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| Members' Interests of Dáil Éireann |
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| Parliamentary Privileges and Oversight (Dáil) |
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| Public Accounts |
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| Standing Orders and Dáil Reform |
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}} |
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| joint_committees = {{Collapsible list|title = ''']''' |
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| framestyle = background: transparent; border: 0; padding: 0; text-align: right; font-weight: normal; white-space: nowrap; |
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| titlestyle = background: transparent; border: 0; padding: 0; text-align: left; font-weight: normal; white-space: nowrap; |
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| bullets = true |
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| Agriculture, Food and the Marine |
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| Autism |
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| Children, Disability, Equality, Integration, and Youth |
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| Disability Matters |Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science |
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| Enterprise, Trade and Employment |
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| Environment and Climate Action |
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| European Union Affairs |
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| Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, and Taoiseach |
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| Foreign Affairs and Defence |
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| Gender Equality |
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| Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement |
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| Irish Language, Gaeltacht and the Irish-speaking Community |
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| Health |
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| Housing, Local Government and Heritage |
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| Justice |
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| Public Petitions |
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| Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands |
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| Transport and Communications |
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| Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport and Media |
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}} |
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| authority = |
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| term_length = No more than 5 years<ref group="lower-alpha">Under the Constitution, the ] may dissolve the Dáil on the Taoiseach's discretional advice; they may refuse this advice if the Taoiseach has lost the Dáil's confidence.</ref> |
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| salary = €113,679 per year<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/salaries-and-allowances/salaries/ |title=Salaries |publisher=Houses of the Oireachtas |date=1 June 2024 |access-date=18 June 2024}}</ref> plus expenses<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/salaries-and-allowances/parliamentary-standard-allowances/ |title=Parliamentary Standard Allowance |
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|publisher=Houses of the Oireachtas |date=19 November 2019 |access-date=26 February 2024}}</ref> |
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| voting_system1 = ] (]) |
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| last_election1 = ] |
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| next_election1 = '']'' |
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| redistricting = Advisory recommendations made by the ] |
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| session_room = DailChamber 2020.jpg |
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| session_res = 290px |
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| meeting_place = Dáil Chamber<br/>], ], Dublin |
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| constitution = ] |
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| website = {{URL|https://www.oireachtas.ie/}} |
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| rules = |
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| footnotes = {{reflist|group=lower-alpha}} |
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}} |
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}} |
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The '''Dáil Éireann''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=ga-Dáil_Éireann.ogg|d|ɔɪ|l|_|ˈ|ɛər|ən}} {{respell|doyl|_|AIR|ən}},<ref>{{cite Oxford Dictionaries|Dáil|accessdate=30 November 2013}}</ref> {{IPA-ga|d̪ˠaːlʲ ˈeːɾʲən̪ˠ|lang}}; {{lit.|"Assembly of Ireland"}}) is the ], and principal chamber, of the ] (Irish legislature), which also includes the ] and ] (the ]).<ref name=Article_15_1_2>Article 15.1.2º of the ] reads: "The Oireachtas shall consist of the President and two Houses, viz.: a House of Representatives to be called Dáil Éireann and a Senate to be called Seanad Éireann."</ref> It consists of 160 members, known as {{lang|ga|]}} (plural {{lang|ga|]}}, commonly abbreviated as TDs). TDs represent 39 ] and are directly elected at least once every five years, by the ] (STV) form of ]. Its powers are similar to those of lower houses under many other ] ]s and it is by far the dominant branch of the Oireachtas. Subject to the limits imposed by the ], it has power to pass any law it wishes, and to nominate and remove the ] (]). Since 1922, it has met in ] in ]. |
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'''Dáil Éireann''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=ga-Dáil_Éireann.ogg|d|ɑː|l|_|ˈ|ɛər|ən}} {{respell|dahl|_|AIR|ən}},<ref>{{Cite encyclopedia|title=Collins Dictionary|access-date=19 May 2024|entry=Dáil Éireann|entry-url=https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/dail-eireann|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519160329/https://www.collinsdictionary.com/web/20240519160329/https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/dail-eireann|archive-date=19 May 2024}}</ref> {{IPA-ga|ˌd̪ˠaːlʲ ˈeːɾʲən̪ˠ|lang}}; {{lit.|Assembly of Ireland}}) is the ] and principal chamber of the ] (Irish legislature), which also includes the ] and a ] called ].<ref name=Article_15_1_2>Article 15.1.2° of the ] reads: "The Oireachtas shall consist of the President and two Houses, viz.: a House of Representatives to be called Dáil Éireann and a Senate to be called Seanad Éireann."</ref> It consists of 174 members, each known as a {{lang|ga|]}} (plural {{lang|ga|Teachtaí Dála}}, commonly abbreviated as TDs). TDs represent 43 ] and are directly elected for terms not exceeding five years, on the system of ] by means of the ] (PR-STV). Its powers are similar to those of lower houses under many other ] ]s and it is by far the dominant branch of the Oireachtas. Subject to the limits imposed by the ], it has power to pass any law it wishes, and to nominate and remove the ] (]). Since 1922, it has met in ] in ]. |
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The Dáil took its current form when the 1937 Constitution was adopted, but it claims descent from the ] of 1919. |
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The Dáil took its current form when the ], but it maintains continuity with the ] established in 1919. |
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==Title== |
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The name ''Dáil Éireann'' is taken from the ] but is the official title of the body in both English and Irish, including both language versions of the ]. Since the Dáil was first established in 1919, it has also been described variously as a "]", a "]" and a "]". |
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A ''dáil'' means an assembly or parliament, so a literal translation of ''Dáil Éireann'' is "Assembly of Ireland". Article 15 of ] describes the body as "a House of Representatives to be called Dáil Éireann" (''Teach Ionadóirí ar a dtugtar Dáil Éireann'').<ref name=Article_15_1_2/><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160209115852/https://www.constitution.ie/Documents/Bhunreacht_na_hEireann_web.pdf |date=9 February 2016 }} (in English and Irish)</ref> |
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The plural of ''Dáil'' in the English language is most commonly ''Dáils'', although the Irish-language plural ''Dálaí''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.teanglann.ie/en/gram/d%C3%A1il|title=Irish Grammar Database: dáil|author=|date=|website=www.teanglann.ie}}</ref> is sometimes encountered in English. As there is only ever one Dáil in existence at any one time, the plural should only be used when referring to the Dáil as it is constituted following different elections; for example, when referring to the ] and ] Dáils.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}} |
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==Composition== |
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==Composition== |
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The Dáil Éireann has 160 members, and the number is changed within the limits of the ], which sets a minimum ratio of one member per 20,000 of the population, and a maximum of one per 30,000. Under current legislation, members are directly elected at least once in every five years by the people of ] under a system of ] known as the ]. Membership of the Dáil is open to Irish citizens who are 21 or older.<ref name=Electoral_Act_1992>{{cite web|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1992/en/act/pub/0023/sec0041.html#sec41|title=Electoral Act, 1992 – Part IX|work=]|accessdate=2 April 2013}}</ref> A member of the Dáil is known as a '']'', ''TD'' or ''Deputy''. |
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The Dáil has 174 members.<ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=2|year=2017|number=39|stitle=Number of members of Dáil Éireann|name=Electoral (Amendment) (Dáil Constituencies) Act 19 |date=23 December 2017}}</ref> The number is set within the limits of the ], which sets a minimum ratio of one member per 20,000 of the population, and a maximum of one per 30,000. Under current legislation, members are directly elected for terms not exceeding five years by the people of ] under a system of ] known as the ]. Currently every ] elects three, four or five TDs. |
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Membership of the Dáil is open to Irish citizens who are 21 or older.<ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=41|year=1992|number=23|stitle=Disqualification for membership of Dáil|name=Electoral Act 1992|date=5 November 1992|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref> A member of the Dáil is a {{lang|ga|]}} and is known generally as a TD or Deputy. |
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The Dáil electorate consists of Irish and British citizens over 18 years of age who are registered to vote in Ireland.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/moving_country/moving_to_ireland/introduction_to_the_irish_system/right_to_vote.html#l862a3|title=Right to vote in Ireland|last=Citizens information|website=www.citizensinformation.ie|language=en|access-date=2017-05-05}}</ref> Under the Constitution a general election for Dáil Éireann must occur once in every seven years, an earlier maximum of five years is set by the Electoral Act, 1992.<ref name=1992ActS33>{{Cite web|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/section/33/enacted/en/html#sec33|title=Electoral Act 1992, Section 33|website=Irish Statute Book|language=en|access-date=9 November 2019}}</ref> The ] (head of government or prime minister) can, at any time, make a request to the ] to dissolve the Dáil, in which case a general election must occur within thirty days. The President may refuse to grant the dissolution, and ask the Dáil to form an alternative government without a general election taking place. |
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The Dáil electorate consists of Irish and British citizens over 18 years of age who are registered to vote in Ireland.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/moving_country/moving_to_ireland/introduction_to_the_irish_system/right_to_vote.html#l862a3|title=Right to vote in Ireland|last=Citizens information|website=www.citizensinformation.ie|language=en|access-date=5 May 2017|archive-date=27 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170527014250/http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/moving_country/moving_to_ireland/introduction_to_the_irish_system/right_to_vote.html#l862a3|url-status=live}}</ref> Under the Constitution a general election for Dáil Éireann must occur once in every seven years, but an earlier maximum of five years is set by the Electoral Act 1992.<ref name=1992ActS33>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=33|year=1992|number=23|stitle=Maximum duration of Dáil|name=Electoral Act 1992|date=5 November 1992|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref> The ] (head of government or prime minister) can, at any time, make a request to the ] to dissolve the Dáil, in which case a general election must occur within thirty days. The President may refuse to grant the dissolution to a Taoiseach who has ceased to retain the support of a majority in the Dáil; to date, no request for a dissolution has been refused. |
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===Elections=== |
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The STV electoral system broadly produces proportional representation in the Dáil. The small size of the constituencies used, however, usually gives a small advantage to the larger parties and under-represents smaller parties. Since the 1990s, the norm in the state has been coalition governments. Prior to 1989, however, a one-party government by ] was a common occurence. The multi-seat constituencies required by STV mean that candidates must often compete for election with others from the same party. This increases voter choice but is accused by some of producing TDs who are excessively parochial. By-elections occur under the ] system. Proposals to amend the constitution to change to the ] ('first-past-the-post') electoral system were rejected in ] in 1959 and in 1968. |
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The STV electoral system broadly produces proportional representation in the Dáil. The low ] of the constituencies used, however, usually gives a small advantage to the larger parties and under-represents smaller parties. Since the 1990s the norm has been coalition governments. Prior to 1989, single-party governments by ] were common. The multi-seat constituencies required by STV mean that candidates must often compete for election with others from the same party. This system offers wide voter choice but is accused by some of producing TDs who are excessively parochial. By-elections occur under the ] system. Proposals to ] to change to the ] system were rejected in referendums ] and ]. |
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Currently, every ] elects between three and five TDs. The constitution specifies that no constituency may return fewer than three TDs but does not specify any upper limit to constituency magnitude. However, statute (Section 6 of the Electoral Act 1997) specifies a maximum of five seats per constituency. The constitution requires that constituency boundaries be reviewed at least once in every twelve years, so that boundaries may be redrawn to accommodate changes in population. Boundary changes are currently drafted by an independent commission, and its recommendations are implemented by law. ] is forbidden by the constitution. Under the Constitution, the commission is required to refer to the most recent Census when considering boundary changes. |
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Currently every ] elects three, four or five TDs. The constitution specifies that no constituency may return fewer than three TDs but does not specify any upper limit to constituency magnitude. However, statute specifies a maximum of five seats per constituency.<ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=6|year=1997|number=25|stitle=Function of Constituency Commission|name=Electoral Act 1997|date=15 May 1997|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref> The constitution requires that constituency boundaries be reviewed at least once in every twelve years, so that boundaries may be redrawn to accommodate changes in population. Boundary changes are drafted by the ] − which from 2023 replaced a judge-led ] appointed for each review − and its recommendations are implemented by law. ] is forbidden by the constitution. Under the Constitution, the commission is required to refer to the most recent Census when considering boundary changes. |
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===Number of members=== |
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===Number of members=== |
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| 174 |
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In the 29th Dáil elected in 2002, there was one TD for every 25,000 citizens. This ratio is in line with that of many other ] member state national parliaments' ratios, giving Ireland a similar MP-to-citizen ratio to ], the ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. (At the two extremes of the EU range, ] has one MP for every 6,000 citizens and ] one MP for every 130,000 citizens). |
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There are currently 174 TDs in the Dáil. This figure was provided by the ] and has been in place since the ]. This follows a recommendation of the ] in August 2023. This gives an average representation of 29,593 people per TD, based on the 2022 census.<ref>{{cite report |title=Constituency Review Report 2023 |publisher=Electoral Commission |date=30 August 2023| url=https://ec-report.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/constituency-review-report-2023.pdf}}</ref> |
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With the adoption of the current Irish constitution in 1937, the membership of the Dáil was reduced from 153 to 138, but in the 1960s the number was increased to 144, then for the 1977 election to 148, only to be increased more substantially in 1981 to the figure of 166. The ''Electoral (Amendment) Act 2011'' provides that the number of members "shall be not less than 153 and not more than 160".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/2011/en/act/pub/0014/sec0003.html|title=Electoral (Amendment) Act 2011, Section 3|publisher=Office of the Attorney General of Ireland|date=25 July 2011|accessdate=11 January 2012}}</ref> This new law came into effect at the ], with a 158-seat Dáil. From the ], it was increased to 160 seats. |
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===Layout=== |
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===Layout=== |
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==Duration== |
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==Duration== |
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The ] was established on 21 January 1919 as the single chamber parliament of the ]. One of the first actions of the Dáil was to ratify a constitution, commonly known as the ]. As a provisional constitution it made no reference to the length of the term of each Dáil. The first and second Dáil existed under the provisions of this constitution. Neither was recognised by the British government or the governments of other countries as the 'lawful' parliament of Ireland. |
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The ] was established on 21 January 1919 as the single-chamber parliament of the ]. One of the first actions of the Dáil was to ratify a constitution, commonly known as the ]. As a provisional constitution it made no reference to the length of the term of each Dáil. The first and second Dáil existed under the provisions of this constitution. Neither was recognised by the British government or the governments of other countries as the lawful parliament of Ireland. |
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Following the signing of the 1922 ], which brought the Irish War of Independence to an end, the single chamber Dáil became the lower house of a new bicameral Oireachtas, the parliament of the newly established ]. Under the treaty, a new constitution replaced the 1919 Dáil constitution. |
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On 6 December 1922, following the signing of the 1921 ] which brought the Irish War of Independence to an end, the single chamber Dáil became the lower house of a new bicameral Oireachtas, the parliament of the newly established ]. |
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Article 28 of the ] (1922) set the maximum term for the Dáil at four years. In 1927 the Oireachtas enacted the Constitution (Amendment No 4) Act. This Act amended Article 28 of the Free State Constitution by extending the maximum term of Dáil Éireann from four years to six years "or such shorter period as may be fixed by legislation". Later that same year, the Oireachtas also enacted the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1927 (No 21 of 1927). Section 7 of that Act stated that the "maximum duration of the Oireachtas without a dissolution shall be five years reckoned from the date of the first meeting of Dáil Éireann after the last previous dissolution". |
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Article 28 of the ] (1922) set the maximum term for the Dáil at four years. This was ] from four years to six years "or such shorter period as may be fixed by legislation".<ref>{{cite Irish legislation|year=1927|number=5|section=1|name=]|stitle=Extension of duration of Dáil Eireann|date=4 March 1927|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref> Later that same year, this period was fixed in law as a duration of "five years reckoned from the date of the first meeting of Dáil Éireann after the last previous dissolution".<ref>{{cite Irish legislation|year=1927|number=21|section=7|name=Electoral (Amendment) Act 1927|stitle=Maximum duration of the Oireachtas|date=22 May 1927|access-date=28 March 2020}}</ref> |
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On 29 December 1937, the Irish Free State ceased to exist and was replaced by a new state called Ireland, with the coming into force of the new ]. Article 16.5 of the 1937 constitution states: "Dáil Éireann shall not continue for a longer period than seven years from the date of its first meeting: a shorter period may be fixed by law". Despite this increase in the potential maximum term of the Dáil to seven years, Section 7 of the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1927 remained in force under the new constitution, as it applied to the term of the Dáil. As a result, the maximum term of the Dáil remained five years. Since the coming info force of the 1937 constitution, no Irish government has proposed changing the maximum term of the Dáil, which still remains five years. The acceptance of five years as the maximum term for any single Dáil was reconfirmed by section 33 of the Electoral Act 1992, which states "The same Dáil shall not continue for a longer period than five years from the date of its first meeting."<ref name=1992ActS33/> Consequently, the maximum term for the Dáil is five years from the date it first met following the last general election. |
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On 29 December 1937, on the coming into force of the new ], the Irish Free State ceased to exist and was replaced by a new state called Ireland. Article 16.5 of the 1937 Constitution states, "Dáil Éireann shall not continue for a longer period than seven years from the date of its first meeting: a shorter period may be fixed by law". The period in law remained at five years. Since the coming into force of the 1937 constitution, no Irish government has proposed changing the maximum term of the Dáil, which still remains five years and was reconfirmed by legislation in 1992, which stated, "The same Dáil shall not continue for a longer period than five years from the date of its first meeting".<ref name=1992ActS33/> Consequently, the maximum term for the Dáil is five years from the date it first met following the last general election. |
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==Dissolution== |
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==Dissolution== |
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Article 16.3.2º of the ] (1937) provides that an election for the Dáil Éireann must take place not later than 30 days after a dissolution of the current Dáil. Article 16.4.2º requires that the newly elected Dáil Éireann must convene no later than 30 days after the polling day for the election. As such, the maximum period of time between a dissolution of the Dáil Éireann before a general election and the meeting of the new Dáil after a general election is 60 days. |
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Article 16.3.2° of the ] (1937) provides that an election for the membership of Dáil Éireann must take place no later than 30 days after a dissolution of the current Dáil. Article 16.4.2° requires that the newly elected Dáil Éireann must convene no later than 30 days after the election. As such, the maximum period of time between a dissolution of Dáil Éireann before a general election and the meeting of the new Dáil after a general election is 60 days. |
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The procedure and timetable for the dissolution of the Dáil Éireann, pursuant to a general election, and the date for the reassembly of the newly elected Dáil, after the election, is set out in the Constitution of Ireland. Article 13.2.1 states that "The Dáil Éireann shall be summoned and dissolved by the President on the advice of the Taoiseach". As such, the timing of a general election rests with the Taoiseach of the day. |
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The procedure and timetable for the dissolution of Dáil Éireann, pursuant to a general election, and the date for the reassembly of the newly elected Dáil, after the election, is set out in the Constitution of Ireland. Article 13.2.1° states that "Dáil Éireann shall be summoned and dissolved by the President on the advice of the Taoiseach". Therefore, the timing of a general election rests with the Taoiseach of the day. |
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Once advised by the Taoiseach, the President issues a proclamation which specifies the date on which the current Dáil is dissolved, and the date on which the newly elected Dáil must first meet. |
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Once so advised by the Taoiseach, the President issues a proclamation which specifies the date on which the current Dáil is dissolved, and the date on which the newly elected Dáil must first meet. |
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The timing for polling day in a general election is decided on by the Taoiseach. However, this is governed within a specified statutory framework. Once the Presidential proclamation is issued, the ] sets, by way of a ministerial order, the date and time of polling day in the election. |
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The timing for polling day in a general election is decided on by the Taoiseach. However, this is governed within a specified statutory framework. Once the presidential proclamation is issued, the ] sets, by way of a ministerial order, the date and time of polling day in the election. |
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Section 39(1) of the Electoral Act 1992 states: |
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Section 39(1) of the Electoral Act 1992 states:<ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=39|year=1992|number=23|stitle=Issue and return of writs|name=Electoral Act 1992|date=5 November 1992|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref> |
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:“Where the Dáil is dissolved, the Clerk of the Dáil shall, immediately upon the issue of the Proclamation dissolving the Dáil, issue a writ to each returning officer for a constituency directing him to cause an election to be held of the full number of members of the Dáil to serve in the Dáil for that constituency.” |
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:"Where the Dáil is dissolved, the Clerk of the Dáil shall, immediately upon the issue of the Proclamation dissolving the Dáil, issue a writ to each returning officer for a constituency directing him to cause an election to be held of the full number of members of the Dáil to serve in the Dáil for that constituency." |
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Section 96 of the Electoral Act 1992 (as amended) states:<ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=96|year=1992|number=23|stitle=Times of poll|name=Electoral Act 1992|date=5 November 1992|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=23|year=2001|number=38|stitle= |
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Section 96 of the Electoral Act 1992 states: |
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Amendment of section 96 of Principal Act.|name=Electoral (Amendment) Act 2001|date=24 October 2001|access-date=31 October 2024}}</ref> |
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:"(1) A poll at a Dáil election— |
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:"(1) A poll at a Dáil election— |
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::(a) shall be taken on such day as shall be appointed by the Minister by order, being a day which (disregarding any excluded day) is not earlier than the eighteenth day or later than the twenty-fifth day next following the day on which the writ or writs for the election is or are issued, |
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::(b) shall continue for such period, not being less than twelve hours, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10.30 p.m. as may be fixed by the Minister by order, subject to the restriction that, in the case of a general election, he shall fix the same period for all constituencies. |
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:(2) An order under this section shall be published in the {{lang|ga|]}} as soon as may be after it is made." |
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For the purposes of the Act an "excluded day" means a day which is a Sunday, Good Friday or a day which is declared to be a public holiday by the Holidays (Employees) Act 1973, or a day which by virtue of a statute or proclamation is a public holiday.<ref>{{Cite Irish legislation|section=2|year=1992|number=23|stitle=Interpretation|name=Electoral Act 1992|date=5 November 1992|access-date=5 August 2021}}</ref> |
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:(a) shall be taken on such day as shall be appointed by the Minister by order, being a day which (disregarding any excluded day) is not earlier than the seventeenth day or later than the twenty-fifth day next following the day on which the writ or writs for the election is or are issued, |
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Therefore, if the Dáil were dissolved on a Tuesday 1 February (in a non-leap year), and the writs for elections issued by the Clerk of the Dáil on that day, then the earliest date for polling day would be Tuesday 22 February (18 days later, excluding Sundays) and the latest date for polling would be Wednesday 2 March (25 days after, excluding Sundays), with polling stations being open for a minimum 12-hour period between the hours of 7am and 10.30pm on polling day (as set out in the ministerial order). In such a scenario, the latest date by which the newly elected Dáil must assemble would be Thursday 24 March (for a 22 February polling date), or Friday 1 April (for a 2 March polling date). |
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:(b) shall continue for such period, not being less than twelve hours, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10.30 p.m. as may be fixed by the Minister by order, subject to the restriction that, in the case of a general election, he shall fix the same period for all constituencies. |
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==Title== |
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:(2) An order under this section shall be published in the ] as soon as may be after it is made." |
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The name {{lang|ga|Dáil Éireann}} is taken from the ] but is the official title of the body in both English and Irish, including in both language versions of the ]. Since the Dáil was first established in 1919, it has also been described variously as a "]", a "]" <ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729042703/https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=3YzJDQAAQBAJ&lpg=PA77&dq=%22Chamber%20of%20Deputies%22%20%22D%C3%A1il%20%C3%89ireann%22&pg=PA77#v=onepage&q=%22Chamber%20of%20Deputies%22%20%22D%C3%A1il%20%C3%89ireann%22&f=false|date=29 July 2020}}, 1930, page 77</ref> and a "]". |
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A {{lang|ga|dáil}} means a "meeting, tryst or encounter of any kind".<ref>{{cite book |editor-last1=Connolly |editor-first1=S. J. |title=The Oxford Companion to Irish History|date=2004|publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780192805010 |page=141 |edition=2nd pbk}}</ref> Article 15 of the ] describes the body as "a House of Representatives to be called Dáil Éireann" ({{lang|ga|Teach Ionadóirí ar a dtugtar Dáil Éireann}}).<ref name=Article_15_1_2/><ref name=isbcons>{{cite web|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html|title=Constitution of Ireland|publisher=Office of the Attorney General|access-date=9 November 2011|archive-date=3 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190503055502/http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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For the purposes of the Act an "excluded day" means a day which is a Sunday, Good Friday or a day which is declared to be a public holiday by the Holidays (Employees) Act 1973, or a day which by virtue of a statute or proclamation is a public holiday.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1992/act/23/section/2/enacted/en/html|title=Electoral Act 1992, Section 2|access-date=9 November 2019|website=Irish Statute Book}}</ref> |
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The word ''Dáil'' is accompanied by the definite article, but ''Dáil Éireann'' is not; one speaks of "the Dáil" but not "the Dáil Éireann".{{citation needed|date=February 2020}} The plural of ''Dáil'' in the English language is most commonly ''Dáils'', although the Irish-language plural ''Dálaí''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.teanglann.ie/en/gram/d%C3%A1il|title=Irish Grammar Database: dáil|website=www.teanglann.ie|access-date=26 September 2015|archive-date=27 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927230659/http://www.teanglann.ie/en/gram/d%C3%A1il|url-status=live}}</ref> is sometimes encountered in English. As there is only ever one Dáil in existence at any one time, the plural is used when referring to the Dáil after different elections; for example, when referring to the ] and ] Dáils.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}} |
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So, if the Dáil were dissolved on a Tuesday 1 February (in a non-leap year), and the writs for elections issued by the Clerk of the Dáil on that day, then the earliest date for polling day would be Monday 21 February (17 days later, excluding Sundays) and the latest date for polling would be Wednesday 2 March (25 days after, excluding Sundays), with polling stations being open for a minimum 12-hour period between the hours of 8am and 10.30pm on polling day (as set out in the ministerial order). In such a scenario, the latest date by which the newly elected Dáil must assemble would be Wednesday 23 March (for a 21 February polling date), or Friday 1 April (for a 2 March polling date). |
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==Ceann Comhairle== |
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==Ceann Comhairle== |
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{{Main|Ceann Comhairle}} |
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{{Main|Ceann Comhairle}} |
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The ] is the chairperson, or presiding member, of the Dáil. The Ceann Comhairle is chosen from among TDs but is required to observe strict impartiality. Despite this, the government will usually try to select one of its own for the position, if its numbers allow. To protect the neutrality of the chair, an incumbent Ceann Comhairle does not seek re-election as a TD but rather is deemed automatically to have been re-elected by their constituency at a general election, unless they are retiring. The Ceann Comhairle does not vote except in the event of a tie. The current Ceann Comhairle is independent TD ]. |
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The chairman, or presiding member, of the Dáil Éireann is the ]. The Ceann Comhairle is chosen from among TDs but is required to observe strict impartiality. Despite this, the government will usually try to select one of its own for the position, if its numbers allow. To protect the neutrality of the chair, an incumbent Ceann Comhairle does not seek re-election as a TD but rather is deemed automatically to have been re-elected by their constituency at a general election, unless they are retiring. The Ceann Comhairle does not vote except in the event of a tie. The current Ceann Comhairle is Fianna Fáil TD ]. |
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==Powers== |
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==Powers== |
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While in principle, the Dáil Éireann is only one of three components of the Oireachtas, the other two being the ] and ], in practice the powers the constitution grants to the Dáil render it by far the most dominant branch, meaning that most bills passed by the Dáil Éireann will ultimately become law. The President can only veto the bill if it violates the Constitution of Ireland. For this to happen, the President must refer the bill to the ] to test its constitutionality upon consultation with the ]. |
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While the Dáil is one of three components of the Oireachtas, the other two being the ] and ], the powers the constitution grants to the Dáil render it by far the dominant branch, meaning that most bills passed by the Dáil will ultimately become law. The president, upon consultation with the ], may refer a bill to the ] to test its constitutionality. If the Court finds that the bill is inconsistent with the Constitution, the president may not sign the bill. |
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In addition to its legislative role, it is the Dáil that approves the nomination the ] for appointment by the ]. The Dáil may also pass a ] in the ], in which case the ] must either seek a ] or resign. It has happened only once that this did not result in a general election. In 1994, ] of ] became ] when the ] left the ] coalition government led by ] |
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In addition to its legislative role, it is the Dáil that approves the nomination the ] for appointment by the ]. The Dáil may also pass a ] in the ], in which case the ] must either seek a ] or resign. It has happened only once that the loss of confidence of the Dáil did not result in a general election: in 1994 ] of ] became ] when the ] left the ] coalition government led by ]. |
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The Dáil has exclusive power to: |
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The Dáil has exclusive power to: |
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*Nominate the ] |
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*Nominate the ] for appointment by the president; |
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*Approve the Taoiseach's nominees {{lang|fr|en bloc}} to serve as Government ministers |
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*Approve the Taoiseach's nominees {{lang|fr|en bloc}} to serve as ] on their appointment by the president; |
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*Approve the Taoiseach's nominee for Attorney General |
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*Approve the budget; |
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*Initiate bills to ]; |
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*Approve the budget |
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*Ratify treaties which include financial provisions (Provided they do not conflict with the Constitution of Ireland) |
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*Ratify treaties which include financial provisions (Provided they do not conflict with the Constitution of Ireland); |
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*Approve a declaration of war |
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*Approve a declaration of war; |
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*Initiate 'money bills' or bills which incur a charge on the public finances (on the recommendation of the Government only) |
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*Initiate 'money bills' or bills which incur a charge on the public finances (on the recommendation of the Government only); |
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*Nominate the Comptroller and Auditor General |
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*Nominate the ] |
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==Activities== |
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==Activities== |
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{{anchor|Committees}}<!--] redirects here--> |
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{{anchor|Committees}}<!--] redirects here--> |
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] in Dublin, seat of Dáil Éireann.]] |
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] in Dublin, seat of Dáil Éireann.]] |
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The Dáil determines its own ] and its members are protected by certain rights arising from ]. In line with other modern parliamentary systems, TDs do not generally vote in accordance with their consciences or the wishes of their constituents, but must follow the instructions of ], a practice that originated in the ]. Except in exceptional circumstances, the Dáil meets in public. The Dáil currently has three ]s and thirteen ]s. |
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As of 2019, the Dáil sits on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays when the Oireachtas is sitting. On Tuesdays the Dáil normally sits from 2pm until 11pm, on Wednesdays from 9.12am until around 11.30pm and on Thursdays from 9am until around 8pm{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}}. |
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The Dáil Éireann determines its own ] and its members are protected by certain rights arising from ]. In line with other modern parliamentary systems, TDs do not generally vote in accordance with their consciences or the wishes of their constituents, but must follow the instructions of party ], a practice that originated in the ]. Except in exceptional circumstances, the Dáil meets in public. The Dáil currently has three ] and thirteen ]. |
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A typical day consists of questions to various cabinet ministers, Leaders’ questions whereby opposition Leaders ask the Taoiseach questions and routine debates on Bills. Every Tuesday and Wednesday three hours over the two days are given to the debate of opposition motions. These normally try to embarrass the government and are widely covered in the media. The government and its majority normally amends these suitably and the amended version is passed by the Government. |
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As of 2019, the Dáil sits on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays when the Oireachtas is sitting. On Tuesdays the Dáil normally sits from 2.00pm until 11.00pm, on Wednesdays from 10.30am until around 11.30pm and on Thursdays from 10.30am until around 8.00pm. |
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Debate and speeches are generally in English, but TDs may switch between Irish and English. |
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A typical day consists of questions to various cabinet ministers, Leaders questions whereby opposition Leaders ask the Taoiseach questions and routine debates on Bills. Every Tuesday and Wednesday three hours over the two days are given to the debate of opposition motions. These normally try to embarrass the government and are widely covered in the media. The government and its Majority normally amends these suitably and the amended version is passed by the Government. |
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Debates and speeches are generally spoken in English, but TDs may switch between Irish and English. |
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=== Standards of conduct === |
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=== Standards of conduct === |
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The ] has ruled that it is disorderly for one deputy to describe another as a ], ], chancer, communist, corner boy, coward, fascist, ], ], ], rat, scumbag, scurrilous speaker or ], or to insinuate that a TD is lying or drunk, or has violated the secrets of cabinet, or doctored an official report.<ref>{{cite book|title=Salient Rulings of the Chair|publisher=Dáil Éireann|location=Dublin|date=May 2002|edition=2nd| pages = §408|nopp=y}}</ref> Also, the reference to "handbagging", particularly with reference to a female member of the House, has been deemed to be unparliamentary.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/1212/1224260596889.html|title=Dáil code: 'handbagging' not allowed|work=]|date=12 December 2009|accessdate=13 December 2009}}</ref> |
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The ] has ruled that it is disorderly for one deputy to describe another as a brat, ], chancer, communist, corner boy, coward, fascist, ], ], ], rat, scumbag, scurrilous speaker or ]; or to insinuate that a TD is lying or drunk; or has violated the secrets of cabinet, or doctored an official report.<ref>{{cite book|title=Salient Rulings of the Chair|publisher=Dáil Éireann|location=Dublin|date=May 2002|edition=2nd| pages = §408|no-pp=y}}</ref> Also, the reference to "handbagging", particularly with reference to a female member of the House, has been deemed to be unparliamentary.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/1212/1224260596889.html|title=Dáil code: 'handbagging' not allowed|newspaper=]|date=12 December 2009|access-date=13 December 2009|archive-date=25 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101025101110/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/1212/1224260596889.html|url-status=live}} {{dead link|date=August 2023}}</ref> |
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The Dáil maintains a document, ''Salient Rulings of the Chair'' which covers behaviour in and out of the House by TDs; section 428 of this lists unparliamentary speech.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2009-12-11/18/| title = Personal Apology by Deputy|work=Houses of the Oireachtas|date=11 December 2009|accessdate=9 November 2019}}</ref> |
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The Dáil maintains a document, ''Salient Rulings of the Chair'' which covers behaviour in and out of the House by TDs; section 428 of this lists unparliamentary speech.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2009-12-11/18/|title=Personal Apology by Deputy|work=Houses of the Oireachtas|date=11 December 2009|access-date=9 November 2019|archive-date=9 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191109122918/https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2009-12-11/18/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Committees== |
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{{main|Committees of the Oireachtas}} |
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===Standing committees=== |
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===Standing committees=== |
Line 291: |
Line 378: |
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===Select committees=== |
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===Select committees=== |
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{{Update|section|date=August 2021}} |
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*Select committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture |
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*Select committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture |
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**Select sub-committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources |
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**Select sub-committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources |
Line 313: |
Line 401: |
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**Select sub-committee on Education and Skills |
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**Select sub-committee on Education and Skills |
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*Select committee on Justice, Defence and Equality |
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*Select committee on Justice, Defence and Equality |
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=== Special committees === |
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* Special Committee on ] Response |
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==Voting procedure== |
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==Voting procedure== |
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Firstly the Ceann Comhairle (or Deputy Ceann Comhairle) puts the question in Irish asking the TDs present to say {{lang|ga|Tá}} (Yes) or {{lang|ga|Níl}} (No) if they agree or disagree with the question before them. The Ceann Comhairle then gives his opinion as to the outcome of the voice vote. Deputies can challenge the Ceann Comhairle and demand a recorded vote by shouting {{lang|ga|Vótáil!}} (Vote!) The Ceann Comhairle then shouts {{lang|ga|Vótáil!}} again which starts the voting process. Division bells sound around Leinster House and in some of its adjoining buildings calling Deputies to the chamber to vote. The bells ring for six minutes and the doors to the chamber are locked after a further four minutes. |
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The Ceann Comhairle (or Leas-Cheann Comhairle) first puts the question in Irish, asking the TDs present to say {{lang|ga|Tá}} (Yes) or {{lang|ga|Níl}} (No) if they agree or disagree with the question before them. The Ceann Comhairle then gives his opinion as to the outcome of the voice vote. Deputies can challenge the Ceann Comhairle and demand a recorded vote by shouting {{lang|ga|Vótáil!}} (Vote!) The Ceann Comhairle then shouts {{lang|ga|Vótáil!}} again which starts the voting process. Division bells sound around Leinster House and in some of its adjoining buildings calling deputies to the chamber to vote. The bells ring for six minutes and the doors to the chamber are locked after a further four minutes. |
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The Ceann Comhairle then appoints two tellers for each side and Deputies are given one minute to vote. The vote is taken by electronic means whereby Deputies press either the Tá or Níl button on their desks to vote for or against a motion. After the voting time has concluded a sheet (Division Paper) containing the result and each TDs vote is signed by the four tellers and given to the Ceann Comhairle who declares the result. |
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The Ceann Comhairle then appoints two tellers for each side and deputies are given one minute to vote. The vote is taken by electronic means whereby Deputies press either the Tá or Níl button on their desks to vote for or against a motion. After the voting time has concluded a sheet (Division Paper) containing the result and each TDs vote is signed by the four tellers and given to the Ceann Comhairle who declares the result. |
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While electronic voting has become the norm, the Dáil votes manually through the lobbies at the back of the chamber on a number of occasions, for example, motions of no confidence. A teller in an electronic vote can call a manual vote if they so wish. This has become an opposition tactic during important votes which are widely covered in the media. |
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While electronic voting has become the norm the Dáil votes manually through the lobbies at the back of the chamber on a number of occasions, for example, motions of no confidence. A teller in an electronic vote can call a manual vote if they so wish. This has become an opposition tactic during important votes which are widely covered in the media. |
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==History== |
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==History== |
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===Precursors=== |
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===Precursors=== |
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The first legislature to exist in Ireland was the ] from 1297 to 1800, and its house of representatives was the ]. However the Parliament of Ireland was abolished under the ] of 1800, with MPs elected for Ireland sitting in the ] until 1922. Irish nationalists first convened the Dáil Éireann as a revolutionary parliament in 1919, and while it successfully took over most functions of government, it was not recognised under ]. |
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The first legislature to exist in Ireland was the ] from 1297 to 1800, and its house of representatives was the ]. However the Parliament of Ireland was abolished under the ] of 1800, with MPs elected for Ireland sitting in the ] until 1922. Irish nationalists first convened Dáil Éireann as a revolutionary parliament in 1919 and while it successfully took over most functions of government it was not recognised under ]. |
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In 1921, the British government established a legislature called the ] in an effort to appease nationalists by granting Ireland limited ]. However this body was rejected and boycotted by nationalists whose allegiance remained with the Dáil. Nonetheless, because the First Dáil was illegal under the United Kingdom constitution, the lower house of the Parliament of Southern Ireland, the ], is considered in British legal theory as the precursor to the Dáil. |
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In 1921 the United Kingdom government established a legislature called the ] in an effort to appease nationalists by granting Ireland limited ]. However this body was rejected and boycotted by nationalists whose allegiance remained with the Dáil. Nonetheless, because the First Dáil was illegal under the United Kingdom constitution, the lower house of the Parliament of Southern Ireland, the ], is considered in British legal theory as the precursor to the Dáil. |
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===Revolutionary Dáil (1919–1922)=== |
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===Revolutionary Dáil (1919–1922)=== |
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{{Main|Dáil Éireann (Irish Republic)}} |
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{{Main|Dáil Éireann (Irish Republic)}} |
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The current Dáil derives from the 1937 Constitution of Ireland, but claims a direct line of descent from the ] of 1919. This Dáil was an assembly established by ] ] elected to the ] in the ]. Upon winning a majority of Irish seats in the election (many uncontested), Sinn Féin MPs refused to recognise the ] and instead convened as the First Dáil Éireann (translated as "Assembly of Ireland"), the unicameral legislature of a new notional ], and the first Irish parliament to exist since 1801. |
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The current Dáil derives from the 1937 Constitution of Ireland, but maintain continuity from the ] of 1919. This Dáil was an assembly established by ] ]s elected to the ] in the ]. They had contested the election on a ] commitment of " a constituent assembly comprising persons chosen by Irish constituencies as the supreme national authority to speak and act in the name of the Irish people". Upon winning 73 of the 105 Irish seats in the election, Sinn Féin MPs refused to recognise the ] and instead convened as Dáil Éireann (translated as "Assembly of Ireland"): the unicameral legislature of a unilaterally declared ], and the first Irish parliament to exist since 1801. |
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The Dáil of the Irish Republic, however, was only recognised internationally by the ] (RSFSR). The first meeting of the Dáil occurred in Dublin on 21 January 1919, in the ], attended by ]. The body was prohibited in the following September, and was forced underground, meeting in several locations. |
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The Dáil of the Irish Republic, however, was only recognised internationally by the ]. The first meeting of the Dáil occurred in Dublin on 21 January 1919, in the ], attended by ]. The body was prohibited in the following September, and was forced underground, meeting in several locations. |
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===Irish Free State (1922–1937)=== |
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===Irish Free State (1922–1937)=== |
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{{Main|Dáil Éireann (Irish Free State)}} |
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{{Main|Dáil Éireann (Irish Free State)}} |
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The Dáil of the Irish Republic was succeeded in 1922 by the Dáil of the ]. The Irish Free State, comprising the 26 southern and western counties of Ireland, was established under the 1921 ]. Dáil Éireann (now described as a "]") became the lower house of a new legislature called the Oireachtas. The first Dáil to exist under the ] succeeded the ] of the Irish Republic and so was styled the ]. The Third Dáil, and every subsequent Dáil, has met in Leinster House. |
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The Dáil of the Irish Republic was succeeded on 6 December 1922 by the Dáil of the ]. The Irish Free State, comprising the twenty-six southern and western counties of Ireland, was established under the 1921 ]. Dáil Éireann was the house of representatives, described in the new constitution as a "], of a bicameral legislature called the ]. The first Dáil to exist under the ] succeeded the ] of the Irish Republic and so was styled the ]. The Third Dáil, and every subsequent Dáil, has met in Leinster House. |
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===Constitution of Ireland (since 1937)=== |
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===Constitution of Ireland (since 1937)=== |
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The ], adopted in 1937, established the modern Irish state, referred to today as Ireland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/cons/en/html|title=Constitution of Ireland|publisher=Office of the Attorney General|accessdate=9 November 2011}}</ref> Under the constitution a new legislature retained the title ''Oireachtas'', and its lower house remained ''Dáil Éireann''. The first Dáil to meet under the Constitution of Ireland was described as the Ninth Dáil. |
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The ], adopted in 1937, established the modern Irish state, referred to as Ireland.<ref name=isbcons /> Under the constitution a new legislature retained the title {{lang|ga|Oireachtas}}, and its lower house remained {{lang|ga|Dáil Éireann}}. The first Dáil to meet under the Constitution of Ireland was described as the Ninth Dáil. |
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During the ] and the necessity for ], the Dáil temporarily sat at the ] from June 2020 to July 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hosford |first=Paul|date=15 July 2021|title=Dáil back in Leinster House on Sept 15 after summer break |url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-40337687.html|access-date=16 July 2022|website=Irish Examiner |language=en}}</ref> From September 2021, the Dáil returned to sitting in Leinster House. |
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==Current composition== |
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<!-- ==Current composition== |
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{{Main|Members of the 33rd Dáil}} |
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{{Main|34th Dáil}} |
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{|class="wikitable" style="font-size: 95%;" |
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{|class="wikitable" style="font-size: 95%;" |
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|- |
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|- |
|
!colspan=2|Party |
|
!colspan=2|Party |
|
!Seats |
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!Seats |
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|} --> |
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==Historical composition== |
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===] (1916/1919–1922)=== |
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{| class="wikitable" width="100%" style="border:solid #000000 1px;font-size:95%;" |
|
|- |
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|- |
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| colspan="2" | |
|
{{party name with colour|Fianna Fáil}} |
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|
{| width="100%" style="font-size:90%;" |
|
|align="right"|37 |
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| width="40" | |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|Sinn Féin (Anti-Treaty)}}|]}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|Sinn Féin}}|]}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|Sinn Féin (Pro-Treaty)}}|]}} |
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|{{legend|{{party color|Ulster Unionist Labour Association}}|]}} |
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|{{legend|{{party color|Irish Parliamentary Party}}|]}} |
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|{{legend|#808080|Others}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|Independent politician}}|Independent}} |
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|{{legend|{{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
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|{{legend|{{party color|Independent Unionist}}|]}} |
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|{{legend|{{party color|Irish Unionist Alliance}}|]}} |
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|} |
|
|
| width="70" | Total seats |
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|- |
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|- |
|
|
| width="40" | ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Sinn Féin}} |
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| |
|
|align="right"|37 |
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{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 69.52%"|73 |
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|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Ulster Unionist Labour Association}}; width: 2.86%"| 3 |
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|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Irish Parliamentary Party}}; width: 5.71%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent Unionist}}; width: 0.95%"| 1 |
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| style="background-color: {{party color|Irish Unionist Alliance}}; width: 20.95%"|22 |
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|} |
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| 105 |
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|- |
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|- |
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| ] |
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{{party name with colour|Fine Gael}} |
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| |
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|align="right"|35 |
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|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 96.88%"|124 |
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|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent Unionist}}; width: 3.13%"| 4 |
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|} |
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|
| 128 |
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|- |
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|- |
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| ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Green Party (Ireland)}} |
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| |
|
|align="right"|12 |
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{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 13.28%"|17 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin (Anti-Treaty)}}; width: 28.13%"|36 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin (Pro-Treaty)}}; width: 45.31%"|58 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.78%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 7.03%"| 9 |
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| style="background-color: {{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 5.47%"| 7 |
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|} |
|
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| 128 |
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|} |
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===] (1922–1937)=== |
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{| class="wikitable" width="100%" style="border:solid #000000 1px;font-size:95%;" |
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|- |
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|- |
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|
| colspan="2" | |
|
{{party name with colour|Labour Party (Ireland)}} |
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|
{| width="100%" style="font-size:90%;" |
|
|align="right"|6 |
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|
|
| width="40" | |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Sinn Féin}}|] / ]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Fianna Fáil}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|#808080|Others}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Independent politician}}|Independent}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|Cumann na nGaedheal}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Fine Gael}}|]}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|National Centre Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
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|
|{{legend|{{party color|National League Party}}|]}} |
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|} |
|
|
| width="70" | Total seats |
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|- |
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|- |
|
|
| width="60" | ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Social Democrats (Ireland)}} |
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| |
|
|align="right"|6 |
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|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.15%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 28.76%"|44 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 2.61%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 8.50%"|13 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Cumann na nGaedheal}}; width: 41.18%"|63 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.80%"|15 |
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|
|} |
|
|
| 153 |
|
|- |
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Solidarity–People Before Profit}} |
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|
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| |
|
|align="right"|5 |
|
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 14.38%"|22 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 3.27%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 28.76%"|44 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 10.46%"|16 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Cumann na nGaedheal}}; width: 30.72%"|47 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 7.19%"|11 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|National League Party}}; width: 5.23%"| 8 |
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|
|} |
|
|
| 153 |
|
|- |
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Aontú}} |
|
|
|
| |
|
|align="right"|1 |
|
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 8.50%"|13 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 37.25%"|57 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.65%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 7.84%"|12 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Cumann na nGaedheal}}; width: 40.52%"|62 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 3.92%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|National League Party}}; width: 1.31%"| 2 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 153 |
|
|- |
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Independents 4 Change}} |
|
|
|
| |
|
|align="right"|1 |
|
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 4.58%"| 7 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 47.06%"|72 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 9.15%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Cumann na nGaedheal}}; width: 37.25%"|57 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Farmers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 1.96%"| 3 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 153 |
|
|- |
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Independent politicians in Ireland}} |
|
|
|
| |
|
|align="right"|19 |
|
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 5.23%"| 8 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 50.33%"|77 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 5.88%"| 9 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Cumann na nGaedheal}}; width: 31.37%"|48 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|National Centre Party (Ireland)}}; width: 7.19%"|11 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 153 |
|
|- |
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
{{party name with colour|Ceann Comhairle}} |
|
|
|
| |
|
|align="right"|1 |
|
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.42%"|13 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 50.00%"|69 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 5.80%"| 8 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 34.78%"|48 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 138 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
|
|
|
===Republic of Ireland (since 1937)=== |
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|
{| class="wikitable" width="100%" style="border:solid #000000 1px;font-size:95%;" |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| colspan="2" | |
|
|
{| width="100%" style="font-size:90%;" |
|
|
| width="40" | |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Workers' Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Socialist Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|People Before Profit}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|People Before Profit–Solidarity}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Independents 4 Change}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Democratic Left (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Sinn Féin}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Social Democrats (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|National Labour Party (Ireland)}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Fianna Fáil}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|#808080|Others}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Independent politician}}|Independent}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Progressive Democrats}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Fine Gael}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Independent Ireland}}|]}} |
|
|
|{{legend|{{party color|Aontú}}|]}} |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| width="70" | Total seats |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| width="60" | ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 6.52%"| 9 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 55.80%"|77 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 5.07%"| 7 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 32.61%"|45 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 138 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 12.32%"|17 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 7.25%"|10 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 48.55%"|67 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.72%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 7.97%"|11 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 23.19%"|32 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 138 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 5.80%"| 8 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|National Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 2.90%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 6.52%"| 9 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 55.07%"|76 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.72%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 7.25%"|10 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 21.74%"|30 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 138 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.52%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|National Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 3.40%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}; width: 6.80%"|10 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 4.76%"| 7 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 46.26%"|68 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.68%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 7.48%"|11 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 21.09%"|31 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 147 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 10.88%"|16 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}; width: 1.36%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 4.08%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 46.94%"|69 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 9.52%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 27.21%"|40 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 147 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 12.93%"|19 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}; width: 2.04%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 3.40%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 44.22%"|65 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 3.40%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 34.01%"|50 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 147 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 2.72%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 8.16%"|12 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}; width: 0.68%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 2.04%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 53.06%"|78 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 6.12%"| 9 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 27.21%"|40 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 147 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 11.11%"|16 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}; width: 0.69%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Talmhan}}; width: 1.39%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 48.61%"|70 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 1.39%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 4.17%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 32.64%"|47 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 144 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 15.28%"|22 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Clann na Poblachta}}; width: 0.69%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 50.00%"|72 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 1.39%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 32.64%"|47 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 144 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 12.50%"|18 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 52.08%"|75 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 0.69%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 34.72%"|50 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 144 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 13.19%"|19 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 47.92%"|69 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 1.39%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 37.50%"|54 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 144 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 11.49%"|17 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 58.33%"|84 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 2.78%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 29.86%"|43 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 148 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Workers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.04%"|15 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 46.99%"|78 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 1.81%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 39.16%"|65 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Workers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 1.81%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.04%"|15 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 48.80%"|81 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 37.95%"|63 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Workers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 1.20%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.64%"|16 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 45.18%"|75 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 1.81%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 42.17%"|70 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Workers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 7.23%"|12 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 48.80%"|81 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 1.81%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Progressive Democrats}}; width: 8.43%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 30.72%"|51 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Workers' Party (Ireland)}}; width: 4.22%"| 7 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 9.04%"|15 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 46.39%"|77 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Progressive Democrats}}; width: 3.61%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 33.13%"|55 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Democratic Left (Ireland)}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 19.88%"|33 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 40.96%"|68 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 3.01%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Progressive Democrats}}; width: 6.02%"|10 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 27.11%"|45 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Socialist Party (Ireland)}}; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Democratic Left (Ireland)}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 1.20%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 10.24%"|17 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 46.39%"|77 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 3.61%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Progressive Democrats}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 32.53%"|54 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Socialist Party (Ireland)}}; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 3.01%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 3.61%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 12.65%"|21 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 48.80%"|81 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 7.83%"|13 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Progressive Democrats}}; width: 4.82%"| 8 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 18.67%"|31 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 2.41%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 3.61%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 12.05%"|20 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 46.99%"|78 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 3.01%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Progressive Democrats}}; width: 1.20%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 30.72%"|51 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Socialist Party (Ireland)}}; width: 1.20%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|People Before Profit}}; width: 1.20%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 8.43%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 22.29%"|37 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 12.05%"|20 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.60%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 8.43%"|14 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 45.78%"|76 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 166 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|People Before Profit–Solidarity}}; width: 3.80%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independents 4 Change}}; width: 2.53%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 14.56%"|23 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Social Democrats (Ireland)}}; width: 1.90%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 1.27%"| 2 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 4.43%"| 7 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 12.03%"|19 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 27.85%"|44 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 31.65%"|50 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 158 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|People Before Profit–Solidarity}}; width: 3.13%"| 5 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independents 4 Change}}; width: 0.63%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 23.13%"|37 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Social Democrats (Ireland)}}; width: 3.75%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 7.50%"|12 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 3.75%"| 6 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 11.88%"|19 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 23.75%"|38 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 21.88%"|35 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Aontú}}; width: 0.63%"| 1 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 160 |
|
|
|- |
|
|
| ] |
|
|
| |
|
|
{| style="width:100%; text-align:center; font-weight:bold; color:white; text-shadow: 1px 1px 1px #000000;" |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|People Before Profit–Solidarity}}; width: 1.72%"| 3 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Sinn Féin}}; width: 22.41%"|39 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Social Democrats (Ireland)}}; width: 6.32%"|11 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Green Party (Ireland)}}; width: 0.57%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Labour Party (Ireland)}}; width: 6.32%"|11 |
|
|
| style="background-color: #808080; width: 0.57%"| 1 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent politician}}; width: 9.20%"|16 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fianna Fáil}}; width: 27.59%"|48 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Fine Gael}}; width: 21.84%"|38 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Independent Ireland}}; width: 2.30%"| 4 |
|
|
| style="background-color: {{party color|Aontú}}; width: 1.15%"| 2 |
|
|
|} |
|
|
| 174 |
|
|} |
|
|} |
|
|
|
|
Line 387: |
Line 938: |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
*] |
|
|
|
|
|
==Notes== |
|
|
{{notelist}} |
|
|
|
|
|
==References== |
|
==References== |
Line 400: |
Line 953: |
|
|
|
|
|
{{Politics of the Republic of Ireland2}} |
|
{{Politics of the Republic of Ireland2}} |
|
{{Lower Houses of Irish Parliaments}} |
|
{{Irish legislatures}} |
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Membership of the Dáil is open to Irish citizens who are 21 or older. A member of the Dáil is a Teachta Dála and is known generally as a TD or Deputy.
The Dáil electorate consists of Irish and British citizens over 18 years of age who are registered to vote in Ireland. Under the Constitution a general election for Dáil Éireann must occur once in every seven years, but an earlier maximum of five years is set by the Electoral Act 1992. The Taoiseach (head of government or prime minister) can, at any time, make a request to the president to dissolve the Dáil, in which case a general election must occur within thirty days. The President may refuse to grant the dissolution to a Taoiseach who has ceased to retain the support of a majority in the Dáil; to date, no request for a dissolution has been refused.
The STV electoral system broadly produces proportional representation in the Dáil. The low district magnitude of the constituencies used, however, usually gives a small advantage to the larger parties and under-represents smaller parties. Since the 1990s the norm has been coalition governments. Prior to 1989, single-party governments by Fianna Fáil were common. The multi-seat constituencies required by STV mean that candidates must often compete for election with others from the same party. This system offers wide voter choice but is accused by some of producing TDs who are excessively parochial. By-elections occur under the alternative vote system. Proposals to amend the constitution to change to the first-past-the-post system were rejected in referendums in 1959 and in 1968.
The Dáil chamber has confrontational benches but the end segment is curved to create a partial hemicycle. The government TDs sit on the left of the Ceann Comhairle, with the main opposition party on their right. The Chamber was adapted for use as a Parliament from its former use as a lecture theatre.
The procedure and timetable for the dissolution of Dáil Éireann, pursuant to a general election, and the date for the reassembly of the newly elected Dáil, after the election, is set out in the Constitution of Ireland. Article 13.2.1° states that "Dáil Éireann shall be summoned and dissolved by the President on the advice of the Taoiseach". Therefore, the timing of a general election rests with the Taoiseach of the day.
Once so advised by the Taoiseach, the President issues a proclamation which specifies the date on which the current Dáil is dissolved, and the date on which the newly elected Dáil must first meet.
The timing for polling day in a general election is decided on by the Taoiseach. However, this is governed within a specified statutory framework. Once the presidential proclamation is issued, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage sets, by way of a ministerial order, the date and time of polling day in the election.
For the purposes of the Act an "excluded day" means a day which is a Sunday, Good Friday or a day which is declared to be a public holiday by the Holidays (Employees) Act 1973, or a day which by virtue of a statute or proclamation is a public holiday.
Therefore, if the Dáil were dissolved on a Tuesday 1 February (in a non-leap year), and the writs for elections issued by the Clerk of the Dáil on that day, then the earliest date for polling day would be Tuesday 22 February (18 days later, excluding Sundays) and the latest date for polling would be Wednesday 2 March (25 days after, excluding Sundays), with polling stations being open for a minimum 12-hour period between the hours of 7am and 10.30pm on polling day (as set out in the ministerial order). In such a scenario, the latest date by which the newly elected Dáil must assemble would be Thursday 24 March (for a 22 February polling date), or Friday 1 April (for a 2 March polling date).
While the Dáil is one of three components of the Oireachtas, the other two being the President of Ireland and Seanad Éireann, the powers the constitution grants to the Dáil render it by far the dominant branch, meaning that most bills passed by the Dáil will ultimately become law. The president, upon consultation with the Council of State, may refer a bill to the Supreme Court of Ireland to test its constitutionality. If the Court finds that the bill is inconsistent with the Constitution, the president may not sign the bill.
As of 2019, the Dáil sits on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays when the Oireachtas is sitting. On Tuesdays the Dáil normally sits from 2pm until 11pm, on Wednesdays from 9.12am until around 11.30pm and on Thursdays from 9am until around 8pm.
A typical day consists of questions to various cabinet ministers, Leaders’ questions whereby opposition Leaders ask the Taoiseach questions and routine debates on Bills. Every Tuesday and Wednesday three hours over the two days are given to the debate of opposition motions. These normally try to embarrass the government and are widely covered in the media. The government and its majority normally amends these suitably and the amended version is passed by the Government.
Debate and speeches are generally in English, but TDs may switch between Irish and English.
The Ceann Comhairle (or Leas-Cheann Comhairle) first puts the question in Irish, asking the TDs present to say Tá (Yes) or Níl (No) if they agree or disagree with the question before them. The Ceann Comhairle then gives his opinion as to the outcome of the voice vote. Deputies can challenge the Ceann Comhairle and demand a recorded vote by shouting Vótáil! (Vote!) The Ceann Comhairle then shouts Vótáil! again which starts the voting process. Division bells sound around Leinster House and in some of its adjoining buildings calling deputies to the chamber to vote. The bells ring for six minutes and the doors to the chamber are locked after a further four minutes.
The Ceann Comhairle then appoints two tellers for each side and deputies are given one minute to vote. The vote is taken by electronic means whereby Deputies press either the Tá or Níl button on their desks to vote for or against a motion. After the voting time has concluded a sheet (Division Paper) containing the result and each TDs vote is signed by the four tellers and given to the Ceann Comhairle who declares the result.
While electronic voting has become the norm the Dáil votes manually through the lobbies at the back of the chamber on a number of occasions, for example, motions of no confidence. A teller in an electronic vote can call a manual vote if they so wish. This has become an opposition tactic during important votes which are widely covered in the media.
The current Dáil derives from the 1937 Constitution of Ireland, but maintain continuity from the First Dáil of 1919. This Dáil was an assembly established by Sinn Féin MPs elected to the House of Commons of the United Kingdom in the 1918 United Kingdom general election. They had contested the election on a manifesto commitment of " a constituent assembly comprising persons chosen by Irish constituencies as the supreme national authority to speak and act in the name of the Irish people". Upon winning 73 of the 105 Irish seats in the election, Sinn Féin MPs refused to recognise the United Kingdom parliament and instead convened as Dáil Éireann (translated as "Assembly of Ireland"): the unicameral legislature of a unilaterally declared Irish Republic, and the first Irish parliament to exist since 1801.
The Dáil of the Irish Republic, however, was only recognised internationally by the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. The first meeting of the Dáil occurred in Dublin on 21 January 1919, in the Mansion House, attended by 27 members. The body was prohibited in the following September, and was forced underground, meeting in several locations.
The Dáil of the Irish Republic was succeeded on 6 December 1922 by the Dáil of the Irish Free State. The Irish Free State, comprising the twenty-six southern and western counties of Ireland, was established under the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty. Dáil Éireann was the house of representatives, described in the new constitution as a "Chamber of Deputies, of a bicameral legislature called the Oireachtas of the Irish Free State. The first Dáil to exist under the Constitution of the Irish Free State succeeded the Second Dáil of the Irish Republic and so was styled the Third Dáil. The Third Dáil, and every subsequent Dáil, has met in Leinster House.