From the Defence Forces to dissolving the Dail - what responsibilities will Catherine Connolly have as president?

"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."

The president performs largely ceremonial duties, centered on hosting heads of state at the official residence, Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, and carrying out diplomatic and civic engagements. The official residence functions as the primary venue for formal receptions and state hospitality. The president holds a constitutional responsibility to assess whether legislation passed by parliament complies with the constitution. If the president believes a bill conflicts with the constitution, the president consults the Council of State and may refer the bill to the Supreme Court for a definitive ruling. The role combines representative duties with a legal safeguard in the legislative process.

Read at Irish Independent