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, the president presented a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.
“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear 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 categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent 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 voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.
In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”
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 deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”
No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”
A artillery tribute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.
