8 Administrative Law

This chapter explains the history of ‘State Side orders’ and the development of applications for judicial review of administrative (as opposed to legislative) action in Ireland. It sets out the ramifications of the ultra vires doctrine, highlighting the East Donegal case. The importance of principles of natural justice is stressed, considering cases such as Healy. Then the way the term ‘reasonableness’ has been unpacked in Ireland is subjected to close examination, with reference to cases such as Keegan and O’Keeffe. The Meadows case and the doctrine of proportionality are analysed, as is the extent to which the Supreme Court adheres to a deferential approach to administrative bodies. Throughout this chapter the subtle differences between the Irish and English approaches to administrative law are singled out for attention and critique