deputy first minister
The 'deputy first minister' is a key political role found in governments such as those of Scotland and Northern Ireland, acting as a joint leader or second-in-command to the first minister.
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Definition
C1Government
(official, political)The second highest-ranking minister who supports and shares responsibilities with the first minister.
Example
- The deputy first minister attended the meeting in place of the first minister.
- In Northern Ireland, the deputy first minister shares equal power with the first minister.
C1Northern Ireland
(regional, political)A joint head of government sharing equal powers and responsibilities with the first minister.
Example
- The deputy first minister co-chaired the Northern Ireland Executive meeting.
- Decisions are made jointly by the first minister and the deputy first minister in Northern Ireland.
C1Scotland
(regional, political)An appointed official who supports the first minister and takes on specific governmental duties.
Example
- In Scotland, the deputy first minister is responsible for several key areas such as business and industry.
- The deputy first minister answered questions in the Scottish Parliament on behalf of the first minister.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "deputy first minister":