🔗 Share this article

Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for 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.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – 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 values and concerns. Repeatedly, 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 the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, 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 brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent 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 platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, 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 first place as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect 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.