Parliamentary elections are the foundation of the democratic State, providing legitimacy to government and an opportunity for citizens to participate in the democratic process. But despite the crucial role of elections in government and society, the law governing them is fragmented, both conceptually and in terms of the legal framework. This book examines each stage of the electoral process from the perspective of the candidate seeking to become an MP: eligibility and qualification, the candidate selection process, nominations, disputed elections and then, lastly, disqualification or exit from the House of Commons. Each stage of the process is considered in light of developments in political practice and human rights jurisprudence, and an argument is made for the rethinking and reform of the law of parliamentary candidacy and membership. The book takes into account the reforms ushered in by the parliamentary expenses scandal of 2009, and also looks to the new electoral era that may eventuate under the Liberal Democrat-Conservative Coalition Government.

Building on the success of the first two editions, Politics in the Republic of Ireland continues to provide an authoritative introduction to all aspects of politics in the Irish Republic.

Electoral Law in Ireland guides the reader through the labyrinthine regulation of electoral law in Ireland from the creation and registration of parties, through to administrative issues with funding, lobbying, political advertising through to issues regarding ethical aspects of political life such as Standards and Ethics in Public Office. Since the foundation of the State there have been 61 acts and 287 statutory instruments dealing with the regulation of political activities in Ireland. The legislation deals with everything from creating a party, to donations through to the regulation of elections and referendums. A comprehensive understanding of this complex legislation is vital to those working in politics and to those who wish to gain greater understanding of political regulation in Ireland. This book also deals with the major challenges and issues such as lobbying regulation and political advertising concerns.

Undersøgelse af parlamentsmandatet baseret på svar på IPU-spørgeskema fra 134 parlamenter. Svarene er sammenlignet systematisk med de respektive forfatninger, lovgivning og parlamentsforretningsordener.