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Catherine Connolly's Council of State Appointments Expected to Ignite Speculation

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Catherine Connolly, the newly elected President of Ireland, is set to announce her Council of State appointments, sparking intense speculation about her selections. Sources close to Sinn Fein, a crucial party in Connolly's election, suggest that high-profile members, including Michelle O'Neill and Gerry Adams, may be among her nominees. However, Connolly's camp has refused to confirm these expectations, leaving many uncertain about the President's choices.

Key Takeaways:

  • Catherine Connolly's Council of State appointments will be widely anticipated, with speculation surrounding her selections.
  • Sinn Fein's support is seen as pivotal to Connolly's election, with the party expecting some form of "repayment" in return.
  • Several Sinn Fein sources believe that Michelle O'Neill and Gerry Adams will be considered for the Council of State.
  • The Council of State is an advisory body that meets sporadically to advise the President on Constitutional matters, with a key role in deciding to refer Oireachtas Bills to the Supreme Court.
  • Only 16 times in the history of the State has the President used their power to refer an Oireachtas Bill to the Supreme Court.
  • Former Taoisigh are automatically assumed positions on the Council of State, with Brian Cowen, Enda Kenny, and Bertie Ahern having attended meetings under outgoing President Michael D Higgins.
  • There is no known impediment preventing sitting TDs, including Mary Lou McDonald, from being members of the Council of State.

Statistics:

  • The Council of State meets sporadically, with no fixed schedule.
  • The Council's most important role is to advise the President on deliberations regarding the referral of Oireachtas Bills to the Supreme Court.
  • This power has only been used 16 times in the history of the State.
  • Only former Taoisigh are given automatic positions on the Council of State.
  • All sitting TDs are eligible to be members of the Council of State, regardless of their party affiliation.

Sources:

  • "Sinn Fein TDs privately admit party is expecting 'repayment' for its support in Catherine Connolly's election" - TheJournal.ie
  • "Catherine Connolly's camp refuses to confirm if senior Sinn Fein figures will be among her nominees" - The Irish Times

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