Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Celebration
The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing 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.
“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”
On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles 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 non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.
In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge 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 working language.”
No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”
A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.
