The Republic of Ireland is divided into 30 administrative regions, mostly tied to the 26 constituent counties (county Tipperary is divided in two and county Dublin in four).
Ireland is a parliamentary, representative democratic republic and a member state of the European Union. While the head of state is the popularly elected President of Ireland, this is a largely ceremonial position with real political power being vested in the indirectly elected Taoiseach (prime minister) who is the head of the government.
There's simply no better way of starting off your New Year than celebrating it in Ireland, as we do know how to throw a party! New Year's Eve is a huge occasion in Ireland, with family gatherings, lots of New Year gala balls and some lively street parties.