Seanad Éireann

Seanad_Éireann_interior

Seanad Éireann (Senate of Ireland) is the upper house of the Oireachtas, the legislature of Ireland. It is composed of 60 members, known as Senators. The Seanad is a revising chamber, meaning it reviews and amends legislation proposed by the Dáil Éireann, the lower house of the Oireachtas.

Composition

The Seanad is composed of 60 members:

• 11 appointed by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister)
• 6 elected by the graduates of two universities: University of Dublin (3) and the National University of Ireland (3)
• 43 elected from five vocational panels: Culture and Education, Agriculture, Labour, Industry and Commerce, and Public Administration

Functions

The primary function of Seanad Éireann is to review and amend legislation proposed by the Dáil. While it can delay legislation, it cannot ultimately prevent it from becoming law. The Seanad also has the power to initiate legislation, except for money bills, which must originate in the Dáil.

History

Seanad Éireann was established by the Constitution of Ireland in 1937, replacing the previous Seanad of the Irish Free State. The first Seanad under the current constitution met in 1938.

Election and Appointment

Senators are elected and appointed through a combination of methods:

• The Taoiseach's nominees are appointed directly by the Taoiseach.
• University Senators are elected by graduates of the respective universities.
• Vocational panel Senators are elected by an electorate consisting of members of the Dáil, outgoing Senators, and members of local authorities.

Powers and Limitations

While the Seanad can delay legislation, it cannot veto it. If the Seanad rejects a bill, the Dáil can override this rejection by passing the bill again. The Seanad can also propose amendments to bills, but the Dáil has the final say on whether to accept these amendments.

Reform Proposals

There have been numerous proposals to reform the Seanad, including changes to its composition and powers. A referendum to abolish the Seanad was held in 2013 but was defeated.

Related Pages

• Oireachtas
• Dáil Éireann
• Taoiseach
• Constitution of Ireland
• University of Dublin
• National University of Ireland

See Also

• Politics of Ireland
• Government of Ireland
• Irish Free State