Democracy

Question 1

Explain Greeces direct democracy

Answer 1

This meant that all citizens had a direct say in how the country was run. This w as possible because of low population and all of the citizens would meet and state their opinions

Question 2

Explain representing democracy

Answer 2

When public elect representatives to run the country

Question 3

What rights do I have in a democratic state

Answer 3

Right to be treated equally
Freedom of expression and you opinions
Right to criticise your government
Right to vote
Right to run for election
Right to equality before the law
Right to practice a religion
Right to join associations

Question 4

Explain the term minority rules and minority rights

Answer 4

This means that the majority will make the decisions but the opinions and thoughts of the minority are respected and thought about.

Question 5

Explain authoritarian rule

Answer 5

Under this rule people don’t possess the freedoms and rights we have in a democratic rule. Examples include countries under dictator or military rule. Often people are not allowed critics the government or join certain organisations

Question 6

Explain democracy

Answer 6

It the form of government that Ireland are under today where the public get to elect representatives to run the country but the people always have a say

Question 7

What is a democratic community

Answer 7

A community where all members are entitled to participation, make decisions or elect people to do it on their behalf

Question 8

What is the Irish constitution called

Answer 8

Bunreacht na hÉireann

Question 9

What are the four things Bunreacht na hÉireann outlines

Answer 9

How Ireland is governed
Key laws of the state
Roles and Powers of key political figures
Rights we are entitled to as Irish citizens

Question 10

How can the Irish government change the constitution

Answer 10

By holding s referendum where the public can say yes or no to the change. Majority rules

Question 11

Give two examples of referendums

Answer 11

Divorce referendum (1995)- Ban on divorce placed by Éamon Devalera was lifted
Gay marriage referendum (2015) - same gender are now allowed to marry

Question 12

What is the Oireachtas

Answer 12

This Irelands national parliament
Consists of : the president
                       The dáil
                       The Seanad 
The main function of the Oireachtas is to govern the country and make laws on behalf of the Irish citizens

Question 13

What is the job of the president. What does this person have to do

Answer 13

Safeguarding our constitution
Signing bills into law
Makes sure laws do not abuse the rights of Irish citizens
Commander in chief of defence forces
Representing Ireland abroad
Giving new ministers their seal of office

Question 14

What is the Dáil

Answer 14

The dáil sits in Leinster house. It consists of 166 TDs. Each of irelands fourth three constituencies elect four or five TDs into government

Question 15

What are the functions of the dáil

Answer 15

To make new laws
To advise government on social, economic and financial life of the country
To debate issues of the day
To make decisions on behalf of the Irish citizens

Question 16

Who is the ceann comhairle

Answer 16

This is a person who chairs dáil meetings and keeps order

Question 17

What is the role of the TD

Answer 17

The teachta dála play a very important role in the government as they represent their constituencies in the meetings.

Question 18

What are the Seanad and what is their role

Answer 18

This is irelands senate, the Seanad consists of 60 senators, elected by the Taoiseach, universities and other panels
The senate :
Consider and review proposed laws form the government but they also have the power to suggest new laws.

Question 19

What are the main functions of the government

Answer 19

Make new laws
Manage financial affairs of the state
Manage economy
Manage social affairs of the Irish people,
Overseeing improvement of essential services
Planning for future
Forging links with other countries

Question 20

Explain coalition government

Answer 20

If one party does not receive the majority of votes (51%) in a general election then two parties can Join together to run the country and this is a coalition government

Question 21

What is the cabinet

Answer 21

The cabinet consists of the Taoiseach the táinaiste and the principal government ministers. There may be no more than fifteen members. Each member of the cabinet is responsible for a particular section of the government. In the cabinet there is a collective responsibility

Question 22

what is the Taoiseach

Answer 22

The prime minister of the Irish state. Elected by the dáil

Question 23

What are the Taoiseach’s job

Answer 23

Provide leadership
Control government business
Appoints and dismisses cabinet ministers
Chairs cabinet meetings
Decides when a general elections are
Nominates senators
Meets with world leaders
Defends government decisions

Question 24

Who is the tánaiste

Answer 24

The deputy prime minister

Question 25

What does the department of finance do

Answer 25

Responsible for financial affairs of country and prepare budget each year

Question 26

What are the department for social and family affairs responsible for

Answer 26

The social welfare needs for different groups of the society

Question 27

What are the department of health and children responsible for

Answer 27

The provision of our health service. They promote healthy living and care especially for children’s needs

Question 28

Swear are the department of education and science responsible for

Answer 28

Looks after primary, post primary and third level education in Ireland

Question 29

What are the department of justice equality and law responsible for

Answer 29

to uphold and enforce laws of the state and they are responsible for gardaí, courts and jail service

Question 30

Explain the Cathaoirleach

Answer 30

The Cathaoirleach is the sole judge of order and calls on members to speak in the Seanad. All speeches must be addressed to the Chair.