Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Day of Pomp and Festivities
The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.
“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”
On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.
In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”
No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”
A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.
