Ireland's New President Sworn In on Day of Pomp and Celebration

Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, 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 other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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 dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. 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 Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

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