Dáil Éireann

There are 166 Members of Dail Éireann. They are known as TD's or Teachta Dála and all are directly elected by the people of Ireland.

Deputies to the Dáil have many functions and duties. A typical week of a TD involves:

• Meeting constituents and holding advice clinics,
• Attending the Dáil to discuss matters of local and national interest,
• Attending Committee meetings,
• Representing their constituents,
• Attending official functions etc.

TD's come from 43 Constituencies around Ireland. Which constituency do you live in?

Kildare is divided into two constituencies - Kildare North and Kildare South. There are 4 TD's representing the people of Kildare North in the Dáil:

Bernard Durkan - Fine Gael

Emmet Stagg - Labour

Catherine Murphy - Independent

Anthony Lawlor -  Fine Gael

Seanad Éireann

The Cathaoirleach Sheanad Éireann is Senator Paddy Burke, FG

The Cathaoirleach is the sole judge of order in the Seanad. His job involves:

• Calling members to speak and all speeches must be addressed to the Chair.
• Putting questions to the House, supervising votes and declaring the results.
• Keeping control of the Seanad debates and making sure Senators behave in an orderly manner.
• He has the power to suspend or adjourn the House.

A typical day in the Seanad involves:

• Debating and voting on legislation,
• Discussing matters of national importance,
• Attending Committee meetings,
• Providing important contributions and expertise to topics being debated.

In addition to their parliamentary duties, Senators also work on behalf of their electorate.
Find out more about the Seanad here

Senator Mary Ann O Brien is from Kildare. Read more about her here.

Irish flag protocol

What does the Irish flag stand for?

When is it flown at half mast? Where is half mast?

Why do we not fly the flag after dark?

 What should you do if the flag becomes torn or worn?

Irish flag protocol from Noeleen

From the Office of the Taoiseach