Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Day of Pomp and Celebration
Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.
In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.
“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude 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 ensure “all voices” were heard 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 sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”
The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.
Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.
In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict 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 war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.
Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”
No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”
A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.
