The role of Ireland’s president explained

The office of president is seen as a largely ceremonial role which involves hosting heads of state at the official residence, Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, and other diplomatic and civic engagements.

The president must also consider whether legislation passed by the parliament complies with the constitution, and if they believe it does not, in consultation with the Council of State, they can refer it to the Supreme Court.

In recent years, the Irish presidency has become a more political role.

During his tenure, outgoing president Michael D Higgins said Ireland’s housing crisis was “our great, great failure”, that the UN was “losing credibility”, and that the Irish State must “urgently meet the needs of”, and address the concerns of, the survivors of mother and baby homes.

Ireland’s next president, Catherine Connolly, has also been an outspoken critic of the Government.

The powers and functions of the president are set out in Article 13 of the Irish Constitution.

Among her roles, Ms Connolly will represents all the people of Ireland at home and abroad through public engagements, making speeches and receiving visitors to the Aras.

She will also officially appoint the country’s premier, or Taoiseach, after they are nominated by the Dail parliament.

The president also appoints members of Government and other office holders, including judges, commissioned officers of the Defence Forces and the attorney general.

The office holder also summons and dissolves the Dail on advice of the Taoiseach, and can call a fresh election when the premier no longer has majority support.

The president may also refuse to dissolve the Dail – in which case MPs, or TDs, must nominate an alternative government.

Ms Connolly will also act as the Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces.

The term of the role is seven years and a president can serve a maximum of two terms.