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 advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.
“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”
Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.
In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.
Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly 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 working language.”
No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”
A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.
