Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.
“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”
On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“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 each person matters 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 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 presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.
In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.
Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”
No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears 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 prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”
A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.
