Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Celebration
Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.
“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”
On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote 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 housing is guaranteed for all.”
Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, 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 tradition the new president will likely uphold.
In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language 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 voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “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.