Ireland's New President Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Festivities
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.
In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative 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 prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.
“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 tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”
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 promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”
Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
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, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and conflict 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 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 Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”
No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”
A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.
