South West Regional Authority

Ireland is a parliamentary democracy. The two 'houses' of what is known as the Oireachtas (parliament) are Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann . The Irish Constitution was enacted into law in 1937.

The Constitution establishes the powers and functions of the Oireachtas, the President and the Government.

The Government is lead by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) and the Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister).

The Dail has 166 members known as TD’s- all of whom are directly elected by the people.

General elections take place at least once every five years.