🔗 Share this article

Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp 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 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 renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate 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 outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “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 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.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.