Catherine Connolly Takes Office on Celebratory Occasion and Celebration
Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.
“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters 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 brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.
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 officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”
Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.
Switching to Irish, Connolly 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 primary status as a working language.”
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 prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”
A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.
