Taoiseach

An Taoiseach is the head of government in Ireland and the leader of cabinet. The Taoiseach is appointed by the President upon the nomination of Dáil Éireann, and must, while he or she remains in office, enjoy the confidence of the Dáil. The position was created under the 1937 Constitution of Ireland, unseating the President of the Executive Council. The current Taoiseach is Bertie Ahern.

The Taoiseach is one of three government positions which must come from the membership of Dáil Éireann. The Taoiseach has an almost identical job description as the British Prime Minister.

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The Taoiseach nominates up to fourteen other ministers, and has the power to ask for the resignation of ministers. He also appoints eleven members to Seanad Éireann.