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The instrument that is specifically designed to irrigate the lacrimal duct is the cannula. This device is typically a slender tube that can be inserted into the lacrimal duct, allowing for the application of saline or other solutions to clear obstructions or to facilitate drainage. The use of a cannula ensures that the fluid is delivered precisely into the duct where it is needed, making it an effective tool in procedures related to the lacrimal system.

In the context of the other options, while a syringe might be used for irrigation purposes in different medical contexts, it lacks the specificity and precision that a cannula provides for the lacrimal duct. Forceps are designed for grasping or holding tissue, and a speculum is used to hold open a cavity or opening for examination or treatment; neither are appropriate for the specific task of irrigating the lacrimal duct. Thus, the cannula is the correct instrument for this specific procedure.