Catherine Connolly Takes Office on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.
“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice 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 genocide.”
Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “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.”
Connolly also hailed 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 elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”
No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”
A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.
