Ireland's New President Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities

Catherine Connolly has vowed 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, the president 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 far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, 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, diplomats, and distinguished guests, 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 lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language 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 country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. 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 every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the head of state was formally invested.