Catherine Connolly Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Celebration
Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.
“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, 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 non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate 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 tradition Connolly is expected to continue.
In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war 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 deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”
No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”
A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.