Ireland's New President Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.
“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.
“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”
On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate 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 urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated 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 platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.
In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement 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 article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”
No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”
A artillery tribute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.