What are dail and seanad?

The Dáil and Seanad are the two houses of the Oireachtas, the parliament of Ireland. The Dáil is the lower house, and the Seanad is the upper house.

The Dáil

The Dáil is made up of 160 members, who are called Teachtaí Dála (TDs). TDs are elected by proportional representation in 40 multi-seat constituencies. The Dáil is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government.

The Seanad

The Seanad is made up of 60 members. 49 senators are elected by the following four groups:

* The National University of Ireland

* The Dublin City University

* Trinity College Dublin

* The National University of Ireland Galway

The remaining 11 senators are nominated by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister). The Seanad has the power to delay legislation passed by the Dáil, but cannot block it.

The Oireachtas

The Oireachtas is the supreme legislative body in Ireland. It is made up of the Dáil and the Seanad. The Oireachtas meets in Leinster House in Dublin.