Catherine Connolly Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Festivities
Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.
In her inauguration address, Connolly 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 prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative 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 Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles 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 non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.
In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—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 loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.
Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge 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 working language.”
No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”
A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.