Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.
“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.
In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”
No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”
A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.
