Catherine Connolly Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Celebration
The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with 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 prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, 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 Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, 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 mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.
Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.
In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”
No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. 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.
