Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Celebration
Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
In her inauguration address, the president presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.
“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced 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 voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.
In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction 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, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge 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 nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched 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 sounded as the new president received the seal of office.
