The Seanad, or Senate, is the upper house of the Oireachtas, which is the legislature of Ireland. It plays a crucial role in reviewing and amending legislation proposed by the lower house, known as the Dáil Éireann. Members of the Seanad, called Senators, are not directly elected by the public; instead, they are appointed through various methods, including by the Taoiseach and by university graduates. The Seanad consists of 60 members, with a mix of appointed, elected, and nominated Senators. It serves to represent different interests and expertise within Irish society, contributing to a more comprehensive legislative process. The Seanad also has the power to initiate legislation, although most bills start in the Dáil.