Jarlath Burns declined an invitation to run for President of Ireland, believing he could enact greater change through his roles as president of the GAA and principal of a school. Burns confirmed to an Oireachtas committee on Wednesday that he was approached about a presidential bid, a position currently held by Catherine Connolly.
Burns’ Rationale for Declining Presidential Run
Burns stated his deep connection to south Armagh factored into his decision. “I have to be honest and say I’m a south Armagh person. I’ve always lived in south Armagh, I would never ever want to leave there,” he said.
He expressed a desire to focus on roles where he could facilitate “transformational change,” and did not believe the Irish presidency offered that opportunity. “I don’t think the President of Ireland is that type of role,” Burns explained.
He feels he can achieve more as president of the GAA and by returning to his position as principal of St. Paul’s in Bessbrook, the largest school in Northern Ireland. “I actually feel that I can achieve more as president of the GAA, and going back to be principal of the largest school in the north – St Paul’s in Bessbrook – is a place where I can achieve more transformational change than sitting in Áras an Uachtaráin and talking nicely and opening things,” he said.
Burns emphasized his respect for the office of the President, calling it “an incredible privilege” to be considered, but reiterated that a presidential run is “not something that’s on my radar, nor do I think it ever will be.”
Burns has one year remaining in his three-year term as GAA president and plans to return to St. Paul’s once his term is complete.
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