Irish politics is characterized by a parliamentary democracy, where the Oireachtas (the national legislature) consists of two houses: the Dáil Éireann (House of Representatives) and the Seanad Éireann (Senate). The Taoiseach, who is the head of government, is usually the leader of the majority party in the Dáil. Political parties such as Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and Sinn Féin play significant roles in shaping policies and governance. Elections in Ireland are held every five years, and the voting system used is called proportional representation, which allows for a more diverse range of political views. Key issues in Irish politics include healthcare, housing, and education, reflecting the concerns of the population. The political landscape is also influenced by historical events, such as the Irish Civil War and the ongoing discussions around Northern Ireland.