Catherine Connolly has been elected as the president of Ireland after a landslide victory.
She has become the 10th president of the Republic of Ireland after defeating Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys, who had already conceded to her rival.
The result, long clear from early tallies, was officially declared at Dublin Castle.
Connolly – an independent who was backed by the major left-wing parties – pledged to be 'an inclusive president for all' in her acceptance speech.
The 68-year-old, from Galway, has been a TD (member of the Irish parliament) since 2016.
Connolly will be the country's 10th president, taking over from Michael D Higgins who has served the maximum two terms in office.
She secured 914,143 first preference votes (63%), the largest amount in Irish presidential election history.
Connolly made her acceptance speech first in Irish and then in English.
She said, 'I will be a president who listens and reflects and who speaks when it's necessary,' adding that she will be 'a voice for peace' and address climate change.
Dublin correspondent Gabija Gataveckaite highlighted Connolly's anti-establishment stance, noting that she won a clear mandate from the people.
When spoilt votes were excluded, Humphreys had 29% of the votes, while withdrawn candidate Jim Gavin had 7%.
With 213,738 spoilt votes and a turnout of 46%, the election saw significant voter engagement.
Catherine Connolly will be inaugurated on November 11, with Higgins leaving office the day before. He congratulated Connolly on her victory, emphasizing the momentous occasion.
Connolly's victory signifies a new era for Irish politics, as she is touted as a leader for all, aiming for inclusivity and progress during her tenure.
