Catherine Connolly Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Festivities

The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president 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 remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. 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 day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, 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 platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

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 nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state was formally invested.