Sovereignty and International Relations in Ireland

These flashcards cover key concepts and constitutional articles related to the sovereignty and international relations of Ireland as discussed in the lecture notes.

What does Article 1 of the Irish Constitution affirm regarding sovereignty?

It affirms the inalienable, indefeasible, and sovereign right of the Irish nation to choose its own form of Government and determine its relations with other nations.

What are the two dimensions of sovereignty mentioned in the notes?

Popular (internal) sovereignty and National (external) sovereignty.

What does popular sovereignty refer to?

The supreme authority or exercising supreme control within the boundaries of the state, designated by the people.

What is national sovereignty?

It refers to the equal power every state possesses to exercise authority within its territory without external interference.

According to Article 6, where do all powers of government derive from?

All powers derive from the people, who have the right to designate the rulers of the State.

What does Article 29.6 state about international agreements?

No international agreement shall be part of the domestic law of the State unless determined by the Oireachtas.

What are the implications of national sovereignty as discussed in the notes?

The state must have power to control external relations, international laws are not part of domestic law, and the state cannot join international organisations that may bind it against its consent.

What does Article 28.3 require regarding participation in war?

War shall not be declared and the State shall not participate in any war without the assent of Dáil Éireann.

How does the Irish court view the status of neutrality in relation to the constitution?

Ireland affirms its devotion to peace but neutrality is not explicitly reflected in the Constitution.

What essential power does the Government hold in conducting foreign relations?

The Government has the power to conclude international agreements and maintain diplomatic relations as the sole representative of the State.