The Constitution, Bunreacht na hÉireann, contains the Fáilte romhaibh go léir go dtí Tithe an Oireachtais. fundamental rules and laws by which our political system is governed. It outlines our constitutional rights as citizens. It was enacted by President Éamon De Valera in 1937. The Constitution outlines the function of the Oireachtas. The Oireachtas consists of three different bodies: the President, Seanad Éireann (the upper house) and Dáil Éireann (the lower house). Dáil Éireann is the primary legislative body. There are 166 Contact John directly elected TDs (Teachta Constituency Office: Dálaí) representing 43 Bull Lane, Portlaoise, Laois constituencies. The Ceann Comhairle chairs proceedings in Dáil Éireann making sure Office contact: that the rules for the debate Lisa Delaney - 05786 34047 LEINSTER HOUSE (standing orders) are followed. Email:
[email protected] VISITOR GUIDE Its main functions are to hold Office opening hours: the government to account, SENATOR JOHN WHELAN debate important issues of the Monday - Friday, 9.30 - 5.00pm day, approve the spendings of I hope you enjoy your visit to the Houses of the facebook.com/JohnWhelan public money and pass new Oireachtas. If you have any queries feel free to legislation. 0612 @SenJohnWhelan contact me or to visit www.labour.ie Seanad Éireann is not directly elected and has less GOVERNMENT of which may be members of the power than the lower chamber, Dáil Éireann. The Taoiseach is the head of the Seanad. The Tánaiste and Minister government. He/she is elected by for Finance must be members of There are 60 members: 43 are elected by outgoing TDs Dáil Éireann and then appoints the Dáil Éireann.