Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.
“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”
On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”
The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.
In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”
No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”
A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.
