Other Ireland

To stay updated on local events and news in Ireland, you can use the following resources:

 

Newspapers and Magazines

   National Publications: The Irish Times, The Irish Independent, The Irish Examiner — these newspapers cover national and regional news. They can be purchased at kiosks or read online on their official websites.

   Local Newspapers: Each county has its publications, such as the Dublin Gazette, Cork News, which focus on news of specific regions.

 

Online News Portals

   RTÉ News (https://www.rte.ie/news) — the official website of the national broadcaster RTÉ with current news.

   TheJournal.ie — an independent news portal with real-time updates.

   BreakingNews.ie — offers the latest news from Ireland and the world.

 

Television Channels

   RTÉ One and RTÉ Two — national channels with news broadcasts, analytical programs, and documentaries.

   Virgin Media One — a commercial channel with news and entertainment programs.

   TG4 — an Irish language channel that also provides news and cultural programs.

 

Radio Stations

   RTÉ Radio 1 — combines news, talk shows, and analytics.

   Today FM and Newstalk — commercial radio stations focusing on news and current events.

   Local radio stations — offer news and information relevant to your region.

 

Mobile Applications

   RTÉ News Now, The Irish Times, TheJournal.ie — these publications' apps enable news and notifications directly to your smartphone.

 

Local Communities and Groups

   Forums and Social Media Groups: Local groups on Facebook or the Boards.ie platform can be sources of news and events in your area.

   Newsletters: Subscribe to newsletters from local organizations or municipal councils to receive updates via email.

 

If you are looking for local news in Ireland in other languages, there are several resources and ways to stay informed:

 

Media in the Irish Language

   TG4: The national Irish language channel offers news and entertainment programs.

   Raidió na Gaeltachta: A radio station with news and cultural programming in Irish.

   Tuairisc.ie: An online news portal in the Irish language.

 

Media for Immigrant Communities

   Polish Community

     - Polska Gazeta and Nasz Świat: Polish newspapers in Ireland covering local and international news.

     - Polonia.ie: An online portal with news and information for the Polish community.

   Lithuanian Community

     - Lietuvis.ie: A Lithuanian online resource with news and events relevant to the Lithuanian community.

   Russian-speaking Community

     - Forums and social media groups where news and announcements are shared.

     - Online Portals: Some websites and blogs publish news in Russian related to life in Ireland.

   Chinese Community

     - WeChat Groups: Local groups where news and events are shared in Chinese.

     - Chinese News Ireland: Some online resources provide news in Mandarin and Cantonese.

   Other Communities

     - Romanian, French, Spanish, and other language groups: Often have their online resources and communities for sharing news.

 

Multilingual News Portals

   Euronews: Provides European news in several languages, including Russian, French, German, and others. While the focus is not exclusively on Ireland, important events in the country are covered.

   The Local Europe: A news portal in English, but may be useful for those with basic language skills.

 

Note that the availability of news resources in different languages may be limited and vary depending on the community. By combining various sources and actively participating in local communities, you can stay informed about events in Ireland in your native language.

Ireland is a country with a rich history and culture, often becoming the subject of various stereotypes. Understanding these stereotypes can help immigrants better integrate and avoid misunderstandings. 

 

All Irish People Are Redheaded and Freckled

   Stereotype: It is believed that most Irish people have red hair and freckles.

   Reality: While Ireland indeed has the highest percentage of red-haired people in the world (about 10%), most of the population has brown or dark hair. The appearance of the Irish is diverse and not limited to this image.

 

Irish people constantly consume alcohol

   Stereotype: Irish people are known for their love of Guinness beer and Irish whiskey, and it is assumed that they frequently drink alcohol.

   Reality: As in any other country, attitudes towards alcohol vary among people. Ireland, like many countries, faces issues of alcohol abuse, but it is incorrect to generalize this to the entire population. Moreover, the government actively promotes a healthy lifestyle.

 

Ireland is just countryside and green fields

   Stereotype: The country is depicted as rural with endless green meadows and small villages.

   Reality: Despite the beautiful landscapes and vast rural areas, Ireland has modern cities with developed infrastructure, such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick. Urbanization and technological development play a significant role in the country's economy.

 

All Irish people speak Irish

   Stereotype: It is assumed that the Irish language is widely used in everyday life.

   Reality: Although Irish is an official language and is taught in schools, the majority of the population uses English in daily communication. However, in some regions (Gaeltacht), the Irish language is actively used.

 

Irish people are deeply religious and conservative

   Stereotype: Ireland is often associated with Catholicism and strict religious traditions.

   Reality: Modern Ireland has become more secular and liberal. In recent years, the country has voted to legalize same-sex marriages and abortions, reflecting changes in societal views.

 

All Irish people play musical instruments and dance Irish dances

   Stereotype: It is assumed that traditional music and dance are an integral part of every Irish person's life.

   Reality: Traditional culture is valued and supported, but the population's interests are diverse and include various musical genres and forms of art.

 

Irish people believe in leprechauns and other mythical creatures

   Stereotype: It is considered that mythology and folklore occupy a central place in the life of the Irish.

   Reality: Although folklore is an important part of cultural heritage, in modern society, these beliefs are more symbolic.

 

The weather in Ireland is always rainy and gloomy

   Stereotype: Ireland is known for its rainy climate and lack of sunny days.

   Reality: The climate in Ireland is temperate and oceanic. Rain is a frequent occurrence, but there are also sunny periods, especially in the summer months. The weather can be unpredictable but is not exclusively rainy.

 

Irish people are friendly and hospitable

   Stereotype: The Irish are considered open and welcoming to foreigners.

   Reality: Many people find the Irish to be friendly and sociable, but, as in any culture, individual character traits can vary greatly.

 

Irish people are talented storytellers and possess a good sense of humor

    Stereotype: It is assumed that the Irish have a natural gift for storytelling and wit.

    Reality: Ireland indeed has a rich literary tradition and is known for its writers and poets. However, not every person fits this image.

 

Stereotypes are often based on simplified or outdated views and do not reflect the complete picture of society. Ireland is a modern and dynamic country with a diverse population and culture. It is important for immigrants to approach new acquaintances and experiences without biases, openly exploring and respecting local traditions and customs.

 Navigation and transportation

Transport for Ireland (TFI Go): An official app for purchasing public transport tickets throughout Ireland. Allows you to buy tickets for buses, trams, and trains, and also provides schedule and route information.

 

Dublin Bus: An app for users of the Dublin bus network. Provides real-time information on schedules, routes, and bus arrival times.

 

Luas: Official app for Dublin's Luas tram. Contains schedule, route map, and service information.

 

Irish Rail: An app for planning train journeys across Ireland. Allows viewing timetables, purchasing tickets, and receiving train status updates.

 

Free Now: A service for booking taxis and private cars in Ireland. Allows you to quickly summon a vehicle, track its arrival, and pay for the trip via the app.

 

 

Shopping and Delivery

Just Eat: A service for ordering food from restaurants with home delivery. Offers a wide selection of venues and cuisines.

 

Deliveroo: Another popular app for food delivery from restaurants. Allows real-time order status tracking.

 

Tesco Ireland: An app for online shopping at the Tesco supermarket chain. Allows ordering groceries for home delivery or pickup.

 

Banking and Financial Services

Revolut: A mobile bank offering multi-currency accounts, currency exchange at favorable rates, and other financial services.

 

AIB Mobile: An app for AIB bank customers, allowing account management, payments, and transfers.

 

Bank of Ireland Mobile Banking: The official app for managing banking services from Bank of Ireland.

 

Health and Wellbeing

MyClinic365: An app for booking doctor appointments, receiving prescriptions, and online consultations.

 

Entertainment and Culture

RTÉ Player: The app for Ireland's national television, RTÉ, for watching programs, news, and shows online.

 

Ticketmaster Ireland: A service for purchasing tickets to concerts, theatrical performances, and sporting events.

Music Festivals and Live Music

 Traditional Irish Music: Pubs and music venues across the country offer live performances using traditional instruments like the fiddle, flute, banjo, and Uilleann pipes.

   Major Festivals:

     Electric Picnic: One of the most popular music festivals held in County Laois, featuring various genres of music and art.

     Galway International Arts Festival: The largest arts festival in Ireland, including music, theater, dance, and visual arts.

     Cork Jazz Festival: An annual jazz festival in Cork, attracting musicians and jazz enthusiasts from around the world.

 

Saint Patrick's Day - March 17.

   Ireland's national holiday, celebrated with parades, festivals, and cultural activities nationwide. The Dublin parade is one of the largest, but celebrations occur in all cities and towns.

 

Theater and Literature

   - Theater performances:

     Abbey Theatre in Dublin — Ireland's national theater, offering classic and modern plays.

     Gate Theatre and Gaiety Theatre are also known for their high-quality productions.

   - Literary Festivals:

     Dublin Writers Festival: Brings together writers and readers to discuss literature and creativity.

     Listowel Writers' Week: The oldest literary festival dedicated to Irish literature and poetry.

 

Sport and Sporting Events

   Gaelic Games: Gaelic football and hurling are traditional Irish sports with a large following. Matches take place all over the country, culminating in the finals at Croke Park.

   Rugby: The Irish national team and provincial teams participate in international and local competitions.

   Horse Racing: Galway Races and Punchestown Festival are major events for racing enthusiasts.

 

Pubs and Nightlife

  Traditional Pubs: Places for socializing, enjoying a pint of Guinness or other local beer, and listening to live music.

  Temple Bar area in Dublin: Known for its pubs, clubs, and street musicians.

 

Cinema and Film Festivals

   Dublin International Film Festival: Offers screenings of Irish and international films, and meetings with directors and actors.

   Galway Film Fleadh: A film festival drawing attention to Irish cinema.

 

Cultural and Historical Events

   Bloomsday: Celebrated on June 16 in honor of James Joyce's novel "Ulysses" with readings, theatrical performances, and costume parades.

   Heritage Week: A week of events dedicated to preserving and promoting Ireland's historical heritage.

 

Arts and Crafts Festivals

   Kilkenny Arts Festival: Focuses on visual arts, music, theatre, and literature.

   Wexford Festival Opera: Known for its high-level opera productions.

 

Nature and Outdoor Activities

   Hiking and Trekking: Routes through the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Wicklow Mountains.

   Water Sports: Surfing in Lahinch, kayaking and sailing on the Atlantic coast.

   National Parks: Killarney National Park, Connemara — ideal for nature lovers.

 

Culinary Festivals

    Taste of Dublin: Showcases the best restaurants and chefs, offers tastings and masterclasses.

    Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival: A celebration for oyster and seafood enthusiasts.

 

Traditional Fairs and Festivals

    Puck Fair: One of the oldest fairs in Ireland, held in Killorglin with musical performances and entertainment.

    St. Stephen's Day: Celebrated on December 26 with traditional events and family gatherings.

 

Contemporary Art and Galleries

    National Gallery of Ireland: Rich collection of Irish and European art.

    Contemporary Art Spaces: IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art) offers exhibitions of contemporary artists.

 

Regardless of your interests — be it music, sports, art, or nature — you'll find numerous opportunities for relaxation and exploring the country's rich heritage. Active participation in community life will help you adapt faster and feel like part of the Irish community.

Where to find public toilets

 

Shopping centers and supermarkets: Most large shopping centers and supermarkets offer free access to toilets for visitors.

 

Museums and cultural institutions: Many museums, galleries, and theatres have toilets available for visitors.

 

Parks and recreational areas: Popular parks and recreational areas often have public toilets, especially in high-traffic locations.

 

Transport hubs: Train and bus stations, as well as airports, usually have toilets, although some may be pay-to-use.

 

Cafes, restaurants, and pubs: While toilets are intended for customers, in emergencies, you can politely ask for permission to use them.

 

Features

 

Pay toilets: In some places, especially transport hubs, toilets may be pay-to-use. It is advisable to have some small coins on hand.

Opening hours: Public toilets may be closed at night or during non-operational hours of institutions.

Cleanliness and maintenance: The level of cleanliness and maintenance can vary. In big cities, toilets are usually well-maintained, while in remote areas, the situation may differ.

 

Tips: There are apps, such as "Flush" or "Toilet Finder," that help locate the nearest public toilet.

Formal courses and schools

 

Language schools: Many language schools in Ireland offer Irish language courses for adults.

 

Universities and colleges: Some higher education institutions offer evening or summer courses in Irish language. Check local university programs for more information.

 

Online resources and apps

 

Duolingo: A popular language learning app, including Irish. Suitable for beginners and allows you to learn at your own pace.

 

uTalk: An app offering Irish language audio lessons with native speakers. Good for practicing pronunciation and vocabulary.

 

Learn Irish: An online platform with free lessons, games, and tests for beginner and advanced levels.

 

Self-study and learning materials

 

A selection of resources for learning the Irish language: Includes reading rules, phrasebooks, textbooks, and grammar guides.

 

- Audio courses: For example, (https://www.langmaster.com/lmcom/com/) offers Irish language audio courses with native speaker narration.

 

Tutors and private lessons

Online platforms: Services like (https://preply.com/) provide access to Irish language tutors for private lessons.

Local ads: Check local ads or online communities to find tutors in your area.

 

Language Clubs and Communities

Language Exchanges: Participating in language exchanges or clubs can help you practice Irish with native speakers and other learners.

 

Social Media: Join groups on social media dedicated to learning the Irish language to find like-minded individuals and get advice.

 

Immersion in the Language Environment

Visiting regions where Irish is the main language of communication encourages intensive practice. Festivals, concerts, and other events related to the Irish language and culture provide opportunities to practice the language in real-life situations.

 

Learning the Irish language is an exciting process that will open new horizons for you and allow a deeper understanding of Irish culture. By using a variety of resources and methods, you can effectively master the language and integrate into the local community.

Ireland is rich in national holidays and traditions that reflect its culture and history. Many of these holidays have deep roots, and some are connected with Catholic and pagan customs. 

 

St. Patrick's Day, March 17

The main national holiday dedicated to the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with parades, vibrant processions, and dances. People dress in green clothing, symbolizing the shamrock, and many buildings are illuminated with green light.

Traditions: Participating in parades, visiting churches, using green accessories and symbols of Ireland (such as the shamrock), as well as tasting traditional Irish beer.

 

Beltane, the night of April 30 to May 1

An ancient Celtic festival marking the beginning of summer. Beltane is traditionally associated with fire and agriculture.

Traditions: Lighting bonfires for symbolic cleansing and blessing. The celebration often includes dancing, music, and gatherings in nature.

 

All Saints' Day or Samhain, the night of October 31 to November 1

The Celtic New Year and one of the oldest festivals in Ireland, which became the basis for Halloween. Samhain is a time when the veil between the world of the living and the spirit world becomes thinner.

Traditions: People dress in costumes to ward off evil spirits and hold celebrations with food and music. In some areas of Ireland, traditional rituals are still conducted to attract luck and a good harvest.

 

Christmas, December 25

Christmas in Ireland is celebrated with special traditions, many of which are unique to the country. The Catholic faith has a strong influence, giving the holiday deep religious significance.

Traditions: Attending midnight mass, decorating homes with candles and garlands, family feasts with traditional dishes (such as turkey and fruitcake). There is also a tradition of hanging a mistletoe branch and exchanging gifts.

 

St. Stephen's Day, December 26

The second day of Christmas, also known as Wren Day in some regions.

Traditions: In the south of Ireland, you can still see parades where people dress in costumes and gather in groups to dance and sing. In modern Ireland, it is also a time to visit friends and family.

 

Easter, date varies according to the calendar

As a Catholic country, Ireland celebrates Easter with deep religious respect.

Traditions: Attending mass, family dinners, exchanging chocolate eggs. Events are also held to commemorate the Easter Rising of 1916, a significant milestone in Irish independence.

 

Lughnasadh, August 1

A traditional Celtic harvest festival dedicated to the god Lugh. Lughnasadh symbolizes the end of summer and the beginning of the autumn harvest.

Traditions: Harvesting, holding country fairs, dancing, games, and competitions. In some regions, there are still traditions of feasting and music festivals.

 

St. Brigid's Day, February 1

One of the four traditional Celtic festivals symbolizing the beginning of spring. This day is dedicated to St. Brigid, the patroness of Ireland.

Traditions: On this day, it is customary to make a St. Brigid's Cross from straw, which serves as a talisman for the home. Many attend churches and conduct rituals to attract luck.

 

Bank Holiday

Ireland observes several bank holidays, which provide people with additional days off. These holidays are intended for rest, travel, and family leisure.

Dates: The first Monday of May, the first Monday of June, the first Monday of August, and the last Monday of October.

Traditions: On bank holidays, festivals, fairs, sporting events, and cultural events are often held.

 

Labor Day, the first Monday of May

A modern holiday celebrating labor and workers. In Ireland, it is also associated with the traditions of spring celebration.

Traditions: Picnics, gatherings, and small local festivals are organized.

Ireland is a country with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Below is a list of major attractions and places that are worth visiting to get acquainted with the culture and beauty of Ireland.

 

Dublin

- Dublin Castle: The historic city center with 12th-century architecture.

- Trinity College: Ireland's oldest university, home to the famous "Book of Kells."

- Temple Bar: A well-known district with pubs, restaurants, and cultural events.

- Guinness Storehouse: Brewery museum with beer tasting opportunities on a panoramic platform.

- National Museum of Ireland: Free entry, collections of archaeology, history, and art.

 

Cliffs of Moher: Majestic cliffs up to 214 meters high, stretching for 8 km along the Atlantic coast in County Clare. Panoramic views, a visitor center with information on the region's geology and fauna.

 

Ring of Kerry: A scenic tourist route 179 km long on the Iveragh Peninsula. Features: mountains, lakes, coastal villages, historical monuments, and beaches.

 

Galway: A lively city on the west coast, known for its culture and festivals.

Attractions: Spanish Arch; Latin Quarter (narrow streets with shops, pubs, and street musicians); Festivals: Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Races.

 

Killarney and Killarney National Park: A town in County Kerry, surrounded by mountains and lakes.

Attractions: Killarney National Park; Ross Castle; MacGillycuddy's Reeks (the highest mountains in Ireland).

 

Dingle Peninsula: A beautiful peninsula with coastal views, beaches, and mountains.

Attractions: Dingle town (known for its music scene and seafood); Slea Head Drive (scenic driving route).

 

Blarney Castle: A medieval castle in County Cork.

Features: Blarney Stone (legend has it that kissing the stone grants eloquence); gardens and parks (lovely places for walks).

 

Giant's Causeway: A unique natural formation of 40,000 basalt columns in Northern Ireland; the legend is associated with the myth of the giant Finn McCool.

 

Glendalough: A valley of two lakes in the Wicklow Mountains.

Attractions: 6th-century monastic complex; picturesque trails for walks and hiking.

 

Connemara Park: A national park in County Galway with wildlife, mountains, and moors.

Features: Walking trails, Connemara pony watching.

 

Skellig Michael: An island in the Atlantic Ocean with a 6th-century monastic complex.

Interesting fact: Filming location for "Star Wars" movies.

 

Cork and Limerick cities

Cork: English Market (historic covered market with local products); Shandon Bells (a belfry with a panoramic view of the city).

Limerick: King John's Castle; Hunt Museum (collection of artworks and artifacts).

 

Boyne Valley: A historic area in County Meath.

Attractions: Newgrange (a prehistoric megalithic monument older than the pyramids); Hill of Tara (ancient residence of the High Kings of Ireland).

 

Phoenix Park: One of the largest city parks in Europe, located in Dublin.

Attractions: Dublin Zoo; Residence of the President of Ireland; freely roaming deer.

 

Sligo and Ben Bulben: Region inspired by poet W.B. Yeats.

Attractions: Ben Bulben mountain; Lough Gill (scenic landscapes and boat trips).

Understanding the cultural norms and customs of Ireland will help immigrants successfully integrate into society and avoid possible misunderstandings.

 

Greetings and addresses

- Greetings: It is customary to shake hands and maintain eye contact upon first meeting. A smile and a friendly facial expression are welcomed.

- Addressing: In informal settings, the Irish quickly switch to first names. In business or official environments, use titles and last names until offered to switch to first names.

- Local expressions: The phrase "How are you?" is often used as a greeting and does not always require a detailed answer about well-being.

 

Communication and language

- Politeness: The Irish value politeness. Frequent use of "please," "thank you," and "sorry" is the norm.

- Art of conversation: Small talk is popular, especially about the weather, sports, or local events.

- Humor: The Irish are known for their sense of humor and sarcasm. Light humor in conversation is welcomed.

- Avoid disputes: Direct disagreement or confrontation may be perceived negatively. Criticism should be expressed tactfully.

 

Punctuality and appointments

- Meetings: Punctuality is important in business settings. It is recommended to arrive on time or 5 minutes before the scheduled time.

- Social events: In informal settings, a slight delay (10-15 minutes) is acceptable, but it is better to inform in advance.

- Cancellations: If you need to cancel a meeting, it's important to notify as early as possible.

 

Dress code

- Casual clothing: The clothing style is usually informal and comfortable, but neatness is valued.

- Business style: In offices, business or business casual style is customary.

- Events: More formal attire may be required at official events or celebrations.

 

Etiquette in public places

- Queues: Queues are strictly observed. Cutting in line without permission is considered rude.

- Public transport: Offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, and passengers with children.

- Voice volume: It's recommended to speak in a moderate tone in public places.

 

Dining and restaurant etiquette

- Home invitations: If invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift for the hosts — flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine.

- In restaurants: It is courteous to wait until everyone has received their dishes before starting to eat.

- Toasts: A toast may be given before the meal begins. Supporting the toast and raising your glass is polite.

- Traditional dishes: Be open to trying local dishes and respect others' culinary preferences.

 

Tipping

- Restaurants: Tips usually constitute 10-15% of the bill if service is not included.

- Pubs: Tipping is not mandatory in pubs, but you can leave the change or offer the bartender a drink ("Have one for yourself").

- Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest euro or adding a small amount is appreciated.

 

Topics for conversation

- Safe topics: Weather, sports (especially Gaelic football and hurling), local attractions, culture, and music.

- Avoid:

  - Politics and history of conflict: The topic of relations between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as the history of conflict, can be sensitive.

  - Religion: Personal religious beliefs are rarely discussed and are usually considered private matters.

  - Personal questions: Avoid overly personal or financial questions upon first acquaintance.

 

Social customs

- Invitations: If inviting someone to a meeting or event, be specific about the time and place details.

- Paying the bill: Among friends, it is common practice to split the bill evenly or have each pay for themselves.

- Holidays: Participation in local holidays and festivals is welcomed and helps to better understand the culture.

 

Attitude toward time and space

- Personal space: The Irish generally maintain a moderate distance when communicating. Physical contact, apart from a handshake, may be inappropriate upon first meeting.

- Time: Despite respecting punctuality, the Irish value a more relaxed approach in social situations.

 

Digital communication

- Social media: Popular and widely used for communication and organizing events.

- Email and messaging: In business correspondence, maintain a polite tone and letter structure. Responding to messages within 24-48 hours is considered the norm.

 

Environmental respect

- Ecology: The Irish value environmental cleanliness. Waste sorting and caring for nature are encouraged.

- Public spaces: Maintaining cleanliness in parks, on beaches, and other public areas is important.

 

Understanding and observing local etiquette and social norms in Ireland not only demonstrates your respect for the country's culture but also eases the adaptation process. The Irish are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and openness on your part will help build strong and positive relationships with the local community.

Main levels of local government

Regional level: Divided into 3 regions: East and Midlands, South, as well as North-West and West.

Local level: At the local level, there are 31 local government authorities, which include:

County Councils — administrative bodies managing rural areas.

City Councils — authorities operating in large cities (e.g., Dublin, Cork, Limerick).

City and County Councils — mixed councils, managing both urban and rural areas.

 

Roles and functions of local authorities

Urban planning and development: Regulating and issuing construction permits, as well as developing and approving urban planning schemes for cities and rural areas.

Housing and social services: Providing social housing, supporting the homeless, controlling rents and housing subsidies.

Transport and infrastructure: Maintaining local roads, managing public transport, planning road infrastructure.

Environmental protection: Monitoring water and air quality, waste management, greening, and nature protection.

Education and cultural projects: Supporting libraries, cultural events, sports, and youth programs.

Health and well-being: Partial support of health and disease prevention programs, in cooperation with national structures.

Business support and economic development: Stimulating the local economy, supporting small and medium enterprises.

 

Structure of local authorities

Council: At the local level, governance is carried out by elected council members, who are elected by residents in local elections every five years.

Executive power: Led by an executive director, who is appointed by the central government and is responsible for implementing council decisions, managing the budget, and coordinating various departments.

Committees and subcommittees: Temporary or permanent committees are created to address specialized issues (e.g., housing or environmental protection), which provide recommendations to the council.

 

Ireland actively supports public participation in local government through:

Public meetings and consultations: Local authorities conduct consultations with residents on important issues such as planning and development.

Local partnership bodies: Platforms where community groups can participate in discussions and decision-making.

Electronic surveys and polls: Used to gather opinions on issues relating to infrastructure, transport, and other areas.