LAW07063 2021 European Union Law

Compare and contrast the principle institutions of the European Union and understand the complex relationship between them.

Explore the effect of EU membership on Ireland and its system of administration of justice and in particular the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Analyse the sources of European Union Law, the doctrine of supremacy and direct effect.

Evaluate the effectiveness of the principles of free movement of workers within the European Union.

Demonstrate the ability to cooperate and work effectively with peers.

The teaching and learning strategy is one which is founded on student-centered active learning. This module will be delivered by a mixture of face to face, online delivery and tutorial support as appropriate.  A range of Computer-Aided Learning (CALL) packages are available to support this module (e.g. Moodle, Adobe Connect, Panopto, Teams). 

Discussion, communication and team working skills will be nurtured throughout the module, where students will have space and the support to articulate and present on their ideas within the learning environment.

Learners will also have the opportunity of learning through the preparation for, and participation in, a simulated meeting of one of the European Institutions (Council of Ministers).

Students will participate actively in their own learning and have the opportunity to reflect on their learning progress through Continuous Assessment (40%) throughout the semester. Assessments may vary from a quiz, case study, simulation meeting, exam, other. Feedback will be provided on an ongoing basis.

Students will also have the opportunity to reflect on their learning progress throughout the semester through formative assessments such as in-class discussions, polls and quizzes.

Repeat assessment/exam will be developed as appropriate to assess failed components.

1.     The Historical Development of the European Union

• The evolution of the European Union and the European Union supranational framework;
• The key political and judicial institutions of the European Union;
• The importance of the European Union in relation to Member States' legal systems.

2.     The Legal Environment

• The main sources of European Union law;
• The doctrine of supremacy of European Union law;
• The principles of horizontal and vertical direct effect.

3.     Simulated Meeting

• Simulated meeting of the European Commission and the Council of Ministers.

4.      Free Movement of Workers

• The legislative framework governing the free movement of workers;
• The rights of entry, residence and employment to which a worker and his family are entitled to in another Member State;
• The limitations which exist in relation to the free movement of workers.

 5.    Rights of European Union Citizens

• Key rights of European Union citizens.