Referenda - Introduction
Information
There are two types of referendum in Ireland.
Constitutional Referendum
When the Government wishes to change something in the Irish Constitution, it must do it by holding a constitutional referendum. The referendum gives the people of Ireland a chance to vote for or against the proposed change or amendment to the Constitution.
Ordinary Referendum
When the Government wishes to introduce a law that is of national importance, the Seanad and the Dáil can petition the President to hold a referendum about the law.
Page updated: 24 June 2010
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Related Documents
- Constitutional Referendum in Ireland
A Constitutional Referendum in Ireland occurs each time the Government wishes to change or amend the Constitution. - Constitution
Bunreacht na hEireann (meaning 'Basic Law of Ireland') is the Irish Constitution. It is the fundamental legal document that sets out how Ireland should be governed and the rights of Irish citizens. - Ordinary Referendum
An Ordinary Referendum in Ireland is one that does not relate to amending the basic law of Ireland (the Constitution). Find out why an Ordinary Referendum would be held.
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