What can British republicans learn from the Irish model of presidency?
The Irish model of presidency is a good example of a ceremonial republic, where the head of state (the President) is elected but has limited powers. Here's a simple explanation and how it inspires British republicans.
8/31/20252 min read
What is the Irish model of presidency?
Head of State:
Ireland has a President (not a monarch) as its official head of state.
Elected by the People:
The President is directly elected by the people every 7 years. Anyone who meets basic requirements and gets enough nominations can run, not just aristocrats or political elites.
Ceremonial Role:
The President doesn’t run the government or make laws. Instead, they:
-Represent Ireland at home and abroad.
-Sign bills into law (after Parliament passes them).
-Have symbolic duties like attending events, meeting foreign leaders, etc.
-Can refer laws to the courts if there’s a question about their constitutionality (a rare but important safeguard).
Non-Partisan:
Once elected, the President stays above party politics and focuses on unity, national values, and public service.
Respected Figure:
Irish Presidents are often well-loved and known for moral leadership, especially in times of national challenge.
Why is this inspiring for British republicans?
British republicans want to replace the monarchy with a democratic system. The Irish model shows how this could work without massive upheaval:
Smooth Transition:
Ireland used to be under the British Crown too. It transitioned to a republic with a ceremonial president without needing a revolution or a radical change to how its government works.
Democratic Head of State:
The Irish President is chosen by the people — not born into the role — which fits modern democratic values.
No Power Grab:
Critics of republicanism fear a powerful president, but Ireland proves a head of state can be symbolic and non-political, just like a monarch, but democratically accountable.
National Unity:
Irish Presidents often act as unifying figures, especially those who have come from diverse or even activist backgrounds. It shows that a presidency can reflect a nation’s evolving identity.
Cost and Transparency:
The Irish presidency is significantly less expensive and more transparent than the British monarchy, which appeals to critics of royal spending.
President Michael D Higgins has been very popular. He will retire in November.
