PRESIDENT CATHERINE CONNOLLY is still “exploring different options” in relation to how much of her salary she will keep. 

The President of Ireland earns a salary in the region of €350,000 per annum. 

Connolly’s predecessor, Michael D Higgins, waived a portion of his salary over his two terms. So too did his predecessor, Mary McAleese. 

During the presidential election campaign, when asked by The Journal if she would take a reduced salary, Connolly said she would “look at” it, adding that she was “open to ideas on that”.

“I’m certainly going to use it for the common good,” she said at the time. 

She said she would discuss it with her team and set out how she would use the salary “in due course”.

However, this was back in July and no further detail has since been provided. 

When contacted by The Journal today, a spokesperson for the President said nothing has yet been set in stone, and a final decision will be made in the new year. 

The President is also set to announce the appointments to the Council of State in the new year.

The council advises the President on the use of her discretionary powers, including referring a Bill to the Supreme Court to test its constitutionality.

Seven members are appointed by the President to sit on the Council of State, which is also comprised of current and former taoisigh and chief justices. 

Meanwhile, Connolly has yet to move into Áras an Uachtaráin, which is currently undergoing minor renovations. It is not yet known when Connolly can take up residence in the Áras. 

In the interim, she is staying at nearby Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park.