Authoritative Study of Workings of Houses of the Oireachtas Launched

A new book which fills a long standing gap in the publications on the Irish Parliament and politics was launched this evening, (26th) in Leinster House.

The book entitled “The Houses of the Oireachtas: Parliament in Ireland,” covers all aspects of the parliament, including its evolution, composition, procedures, financing, administration and reform. It is edited by Dr Muiris McCarthaigh and Dr Maurice Manning and features contributions from Oireachtas members past and present, journalists, academics and administrators. It includes a range of expert opinions and observations on the Irish Parliament today.

Co-editor Dr Maurice Manning said;
“Despite the fact that the Houses of the Oireachtas is nearing the century of its foundation, there has never been a comprehensive study published of its work, meaning that much of the business of the Oireachtas is unknown, understudied or even misunderstood.

This book seeks to fill this gap by examining a number of assumptions about the Irish Parliament, including its law making role, the nature of the executive-legislative relations and the outcomes of recent changes to the financing and administration of the Houses. It also offers suggestions for future reform. This new text will provide the most authoritative account of the Irish Parliament in existence and will be essential reading for all those interested in Irish politics, government and their reform.”

Co-editor, Dr Muiris McCarthaigh said;
“The economic and financial crisis in Ireland has raised fundamental questions about public governance in Ireland and it is inconceivable that the manner in which national parliament conducts its business or more accurately how governments conduct their business in parliament is not part of the questioning.”

The last time a book on the operation and workings of the parliament was published was in 1979 when the 4th Edition of John McGowan Smyth’s work “The Houses of the Oireachtas” was published. Given the immense changes and progress since then, I think it is fair to say that Ireland is in need of this new book. This new study at more than 500 pages provides a much needed and welcome update on the evolution and workings of the Dáil, Seanad and Committees.”

The launch was preceded by a symposium examining the pertinent issues addressed in the book. The book is published by the Institute of Public Administration and retails at €35 in soft back and €45 in hardback. It is available from bookshops nationwide. It consists of 22 chapters written by 18 different contributors.

Daniel English
Oireachtas Communications Unit
01 618 4484
087 6949926