Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Celebration
Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
In her inauguration address, Connolly presented 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 radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.
“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 served to silence, 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 amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.
In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”
Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”
No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. 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 new president received the seal of office.