🔗 Share this article

Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing 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 declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, 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 platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

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

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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