Derived from the renowned multi-volume International Encyclopaedia of Laws, this very useful analysis of constitutional law in Ireland provides essential information on the country’s sources of constitutional law, its form of government, and its administrative structure. Lawyers who handle transnational matters will appreciate the clarifications of particular terminology and its application. Throughout the book, the treatment emphasizes the specific points at which constitutional law affects the interpretation of legal rules and procedure.

Thorough coverage by a local expert fully describes the political system, the historical background, the role of treaties, legislation, jurisprudence, and administrative regulations. The discussion of the form and structure of government outlines its legal status, the jurisdiction and workings of the central state organs, the subdivisions of the state, its decentralized authorities, and concepts of citizenship. Special issues include the legal position of aliens, foreign relations, taxing and spending powers, emergency laws, the power of the military, and the constitutional relationship between church and state. Details are presented in such a way that readers who are unfamiliar with specific terms and concepts in varying contexts will fully grasp their meaning and significance.

Its succinct yet scholarly nature, as well as the practical quality of the information it provides, make this book a valuable time-saving tool for both practising and academic jurists. Lawyers representing parties with interests in Ireland will welcome this guide, and academics and researchers will appreciate its value in the study of comparative constitutional law.

The Authors

List of Abbreviations

General Introduction

Part I. Sources of Constitutional Law

Chapter 1. Treaties

Chapter 2. The Constitution

Chapter 3. Legislation

Chapter 4. Case law

Chapter 5. Customary Law, Unwritten Principles

Chapter 6. Subordinate Rules and Regulations

Chapter 7. Constitutional Interpretation

Part II. Form of Government

Chapter 1. General

Chapter 2. Head of State

Chapter 3. Legislature

Chapter 4. The Executive

Chapter 5. The Judiciary

Chapter 6. Independent Non-political Agencies

Part III. The State and Its Subdivisions

Chapter 1. State Form

Chapter 2. The State and External Relations

Part IV. Citizenship and the Administration of Justice

Chapter 1. Rules Concerning Nationality and Relevance of Nationality

Chapter 2. Fundamental Rights and Liberties

Chapter 3. Constitutional Problems of Minorities

Chapter 4. Legal Position of Foreign Nationals

Chapter 5. The ECHR and Rights in Ireland

Part V. Specific Problems

Chapter 1. War and Foreign Affairs Powers

Chapter 2. Public Finance / Taxation

Chapter 3. Emergency Powers

Chapter 4. Relationship Between Church and State

Chapter 5. The Irish Language

Chapter 6. The Constitutional Convention

Selected Bibliography

Index