democratic institution Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is the Good Friday Agreement?
Signed in 1998, it ended 30 years of the Troubles through multi-party negotiations involving the British and Irish governments.
The agreement aimed to establish peace and create a framework for political cooperation in Northern Ireland.
What is the Northern Ireland Assembly?
Established as part of the Good Friday Agreement, it’s a devolved government where power is transferred from Westminster to Belfast.
The Assembly has full authority to pass laws and make decisions on transferred matters.
What is the purpose of Community Power Sharing in the Northern Ireland Assembly?
Designed for power sharing between Unionists and Nationalists, requiring democratic and peaceful means of resolving differences.
This approach aims to ensure that both communities have a voice in governance.
What role does equality and human rights play in the Good Friday Agreement?
The agreement prioritizes safeguarding human rights and promoting equality, leading to the establishment of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission.
It covers various forms of discrimination including age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, dependents, disability, religious beliefs, and marital status.
What does the Good Friday Agreement say about linguistic diversity?
It recognizes and promotes respect for the Irish language, Ulster Scots, and other ethnic minority languages.
This reflects a commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion.
Who leads the Northern Ireland Assembly?
The Assembly is led by the First Minister and deputy First Minister.
These leaders are responsible for representing the Assembly and overseeing its operations.
How many elected MLAs are in the Northern Ireland Assembly?
90 elected MLAs representing 18 constituencies.
MLAs play a key role in representing constituents and making legislative decisions.
What are some responsibilities of the Northern Ireland Assembly?
Responsibilities include:
* Transferred matters: Public services (education, health, agriculture)
* Reserved matters: Ongoing police enquiries.
This delineation helps clarify the scope of the Assembly’s authority.
What is the legislation process in the Northern Ireland Assembly?
Ministers, committees, and individual members can propose a bill. If approved, it becomes an act of the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Important decisions require cross-community support (both Nationalist and Unionist votes).
What is the role of MLAs in scrutinising the Executive?
MLAs investigate the work of Ministers and government departments providing public services.
This function is essential for accountability and transparency in governance.
