Act of the Oireachtas is a legal term used in the context of Irish law, specifically referring to a piece of legislation enacted by the Oireachtas, which is the national parliament of Ireland. It is the primary legislative authority in the Republic of Ireland and consists of two houses, the Dáil Éireann (lower house) and the Seanad Éireann (upper house).
An Act of the Oireachtas represents a formal written law that has been introduced, debated, and passed by both houses of the parliament before receiving the President's signature to become law. Acts of the Oireachtas can cover a wide range of legal matters, including criminal law, civil law, taxation, healthcare, education, social welfare, and many others.
These acts are the highest form of law in Ireland and have the power to regulate and govern all aspects of public and private life within the jurisdiction of the Republic of Ireland. They carry legal force and are binding on all individuals, businesses, and institutions operating within the country's borders. Acts of the Oireachtas can amend, repeal, or introduce new laws, thereby shaping the legal framework and providing a basis for decision-making, enforcement, and dispute resolution.
Overall, an Act of the Oireachtas plays a crucial role in the legislative process of Ireland, representing an official, codified form of law passed by the country's parliament, regulating various aspects of public and private life and providing a foundation for the legal system in the Republic of Ireland.
