Ireland's New President Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.
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 prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.
“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”
On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement 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 home is a fundamental human right.”
Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator 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 platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.
In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”
Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.
Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”
No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”
A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president was formally invested.
