🔗 Share this article

Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard 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 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 home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, 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 officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “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 resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.