Powers of the Taoiseach

Limitations on the Taoiseach's powers

Problems of a coalition - 'Chairman'
- Restricts powers of patronage-
  - Taoiseach must select from the coalition parties
  - Taoiseach cannot fire so easily
- Collective responsibility very weak
- Ministers hold loyalty to party leader first
Frequency of minority govts makes it diff to assert authority
When choosing cabFurther restrained by the Constitution- may only appoint 15 Cab ministers
- account for regional, gender balance
- account for ideological factions, big beasts + seniority/reward

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