Leftwing Independent Catherine Connolly has been inaugurated the 10th President of Ireland.
The event took place at St. Patrick’s Hall at Dublin Castle, where it has taken place every inauguration since 1938. It was attended by a significant number of political leaders, including all Government Ministers, the Attorney General, Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill, former Taosigh like Leo Varadkar and Bertie Ahern, and more.
It was also attended by former Presidents, such as outgoing Michael D. Higgins, Mary McAleese, Mary Robinson, and others.
The ceremony began with prayers from religious figures from a number of denominations, including Catholic, Quaker, Islamic, Presbyterian, Methodist, Jewish, Greek Orthodox, and Humanist leaders. This section heard prayers that Ireland would “uphold the rights and dignity of every person” and “become a place of justice and peace”, and for the incoming President to do the right thing “even when that’s hard.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin congratulated Connolly on her victory, saying that it was a “momentous and happy day”. He noted that Ireland had the longest unbroken chain of democratically elected leaders in European history. He said this showed that Ireland is resilient against “extremism” because of the Irish public’s “commitment to democracy”.
Speaking after being sworn in, Connolly said that “the people have spoken”, adding that she had received a “powerful mandate” to pursue a society where “diversity is cherished”, “sustainable solutions” are developed, and where “a home is a fundamental human right”.
She said that the challenge of the Presidency sometimes seemed “insurmountable”, and that their ideas seemed “too far out” and “too Left” to win. However, she said that the “dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values or concerns.”
“We saw the emergence of hope”, she said, adding that she wanted to foster a public discourse that “nourishes inclusivity” and “active citizenship”.
“We face the existential threat of climate change and ongoing wars, both of which are inextricably linked,” she said.
“We cannot turn back the clock, nor close our eyes to these realities.”
She also noted that, as a neutral country that has been colonised and starved in the Famine historically, Ireland is “particularly well placed” to push for diplomacy amid famine and wars in the modern era.
Said further stated that she wants to foster an “inclusive and open dialogue” about a United Ireland, and acknowledged the diaspora, arguing that Irish emigrants have “kept their love of Ireland and its culture deep in their hearts.”
“I have never believed more in the spirit of this country. I have heard it in the music, the song, and the dance of our people,” she said, speaking at length about her desire to promote the Irish language as part of her tenure as President.
She went on to say that she would seek to be a “catalyst for change” during her time in office.