1.
How old do you have to be to vote in a General Election in Ireland?
Correct Answer
B. 18
Explanation
In a General Election in Ireland, the minimum age requirement to vote is 18. This means that individuals must be at least 18 years old to participate in the democratic process and cast their vote for their preferred candidates. The age of 18 is commonly recognized as the legal age of adulthood in many countries, including Ireland, and is considered an appropriate age for individuals to exercise their right to vote and have a say in the country's governance.
2.
What building does the President of Ireland live in?
Correct Answer
A. Áras an Uachtaráin
Explanation
The correct answer is Áras an Uachtaráin. Áras an Uachtaráin is the official residence of the President of Ireland. It is located in Phoenix Park, Dublin. Leinster House is the seat of the Oireachtas, the Irish parliament, and City Hall is the headquarters of the Dublin City Council. However, the President of Ireland does not reside in either of these buildings.
3.
What is the total number of TDs that sit in Dáil Éireann ?
Correct Answer
C. 166
Explanation
The correct answer is 166. This is the total number of TDs (Teachta Dála) that sit in Dáil Éireann, which is the lower house of the Oireachtas (Irish Parliament). The Dáil is made up of representatives from different political parties who are elected by the public in general elections. The number of TDs can vary after each election, but currently, there are 166 seats in the Dáil.
4.
How many members does Seanad Éireann have?
Correct Answer
A. 60
Explanation
Seanad Éireann is the upper house of the Oireachtas, the Irish parliament. It is composed of 60 members. These members are not directly elected by the public, but rather appointed through various methods, including by the Taoiseach, the President, and through university constituencies. The Seanad plays a role in reviewing and amending legislation proposed by the lower house, the Dáil Éireann, and provides a forum for debate on important national issues.
5.
What is the leader of the Irish Government called?
Correct Answer
A. Taoiseach
Explanation
The leader of the Irish Government is called the Taoiseach. This term is used to refer to the Prime Minister or head of government in Ireland. The Taoiseach is responsible for leading the government, making policy decisions, and representing Ireland both domestically and internationally. The title comes from the Irish language and translates to "chief" or "leader." The Taoiseach is appointed by the President of Ireland and is typically the leader of the political party or coalition with the majority in the Irish parliament.
6.
Which Irish election takes place every seven years?
Correct Answer
C. A presidential election
Explanation
A presidential election in Ireland takes place every seven years. This is the process where the citizens of Ireland vote to elect their president. Unlike a general election, where voters choose representatives for the legislative body, a presidential election specifically focuses on electing the head of state. The seven-year term ensures that the president has a longer period to fulfill their duties and maintain stability in the country's leadership.
7.
How many Dáil constituencies are there in Ireland?
Correct Answer
C. 43
Explanation
There are 43 Dáil constituencies in Ireland.
8.
What two parties are currently in government in Ireland?
Correct Answer
B. Fine Gael and Labour
Explanation
The correct answer is Fine Gael and Labour. This answer is based on the current political situation in Ireland. Fine Gael and Labour are the two parties that formed a coalition government after the general election in 2011. However, it should be noted that political situations can change, and this answer may not be valid in the future.
9.
Where would an MEP go to work?
Correct Answer
C. The European Parliament
Explanation
An MEP, which stands for Member of the European Parliament, would go to work at the European Parliament. The European Parliament is the legislative branch of the European Union and is responsible for making decisions and laws that affect the member countries of the EU. It is located in Brussels, Belgium, and also has offices in Strasbourg, France, and Luxembourg. MEPs represent their respective countries and work together to discuss and vote on various issues and policies that impact the European Union as a whole.
10.
How many TDs are needed to form the Government in Ireland?
Correct Answer
B. 84
Explanation
In Ireland, a political party or coalition needs to have at least 84 seats in the Dáil Éireann (the Irish Parliament) to form a government. The Dáil Éireann consists of 160 members known as Teachta Dála (TDs), who are elected by the public in general elections. Since 84 is the majority of 160, it is the minimum number of TDs required to have enough support to form a government.