Summary: Outgoing President Michael D. Higgins today received President-elect Catherine Connolly at Áras an Uachtaráin, just days before her inauguration as the tenth President of Ireland. The meeting marked a symbolic handover of office as Higgins prepares to conclude his second term.
A Formal Yet Warm Encounter
President Higgins, accompanied by his wife Sabina Higgins, welcomed Connolly and her husband Brian McEnery to the presidential residence in Dublin. The two leaders exchanged handshakes, embraces, and a few words in Irish, with Higgins wishing Connolly “health and happiness” as she prepares to assume the presidency.
The meeting included a private discussion in the President’s study, followed by a family signing of the Áras visitors’ book. Photographers captured the moment as Higgins and Connolly joked about linking arms for the cameras, underscoring the cordial nature of the occasion.
Connolly’s Path to the Presidency
Connolly, a long-serving independent TD for Galway West and former Leas-Cheann Comhairle of the Dáil, was elected President in October with over 63% of first-preference votes, securing victory on the first count. She becomes the first woman from Galway and the first independent candidate since 1973 to be elected to the office.
Her election followed a campaign focused on social inclusion, equality, and democratic renewal, themes she is expected to carry into her presidency. Connolly formally vacated her Dáil seat earlier this week, receiving a standing ovation from colleagues across the political spectrum.
Transition of Office
President Higgins, who has served since 2011, will formally step down at midnight on 10 November. Connolly’s inauguration will take place the following day, Tuesday, 11 November 2025, at Dublin Castle, in a ceremony steeped in tradition and attended by political leaders, diplomats, and civic representatives.
This transition marks the end of Higgins’ widely praised tenure, during which he championed human rights, culture, and social justice, and the beginning of Connolly’s presidency, which many expect will continue Ireland’s tradition of progressive, independent leadership.
Significance of the Moment
The meeting at Áras an Uachtaráin symbolised both continuity and change. Higgins and Connolly share political roots in Galway and a history of public service, making today’s encounter not only a constitutional formality but also a personal passing of the torch.
In short: With her inauguration just days away, Catherine Connolly’s visit to Áras an Uachtaráin marked a key step in Ireland’s presidential transition. As Michael D. Higgins prepares to leave office after 14 years, Connolly is set to make history as the country’s tenth President, bringing her independent voice and Galway roots to the highest office in the land.
Sources: RTÉ Ireland; Galway Bay FM; Connacht Tribune.
President Michael D. Higgins and Catherine Connolly Picrure from President of Ireland Media Team
