Ireland operates as a parliamentary democracy and a republic. The head of state is the President, a largely ceremonial role elected by the public for a seven-year term. Executive authority is vested in the Taoiseach (Prime Minister), who is the head of government and leads the Cabinet. The Taoiseach is usually the leader of the majority party or coalition in the lower house of Parliament, known as Dáil Éireann.

The Oireachtas, the national parliament, consists of two houses: Dáil Éireann (the House of Representatives) and Seanad Éireann (the Senate). Members of the Dáil are elected by proportional representation, while senators are elected from various vocational panels and universities. The President appoints a Taoiseach based on the Dáil’s nomination, and the Taoiseach, in turn, proposes a Cabinet, subject to Dáil approval.

The judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Court as the highest court in the country. Ireland’s political system emphasizes the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Local government is organized into counties and municipalities, with elected councils responsible for local administration.

Overall, Ireland’s political structure reflects a democratic system with strong parliamentary traditions, the rule of law, and a commitment to representative government.