Ireland's New President Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Festivities
Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.
In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.
“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, 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 powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, 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 trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.
Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.
In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”
Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.
Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”
No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. 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 each phrase.”
A artillery tribute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.
