Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Celebration

The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives 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 renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions 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 united opposition leftwing parties, 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 tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “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 used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.