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 history of independence.
During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.
“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, 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 trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.
In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict 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 lived understanding of loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”
No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”
A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.
