Catherine Connolly Sworn In on Day of Pomp and Festivities

The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a progressive vision 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, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“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 each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war 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 conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. 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 official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state was formally invested.