Catherine Connolly Inaugurated as Ireland’s 10th President

Catherine Connolly has been inaugurated as the 10th President of Ireland, marking a significant moment in the country’s political landscape. Delivering her speech in both English and Irish, Connolly addressed key national issues and her vision for a more inclusive and sustainable Ireland.

In her inaugural address, she emphasized the powerful mandate given to her by the people, urging a commitment to a republic where every individual is valued. “The people have spoken and have given their President a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic,” she stated. Connolly’s emphasis on diversity and sustainable solutions reflects her intent to address pressing societal challenges.

Connolly acknowledged the historical context of her presidency, drawing parallels with her predecessors, including Mary Robinson, who was elected during significant geopolitical changes in 1990, and Mary McAleese, who took office amid the peace process in 1997. She highlighted the ongoing impacts of the global financial crisis on Ireland, which began during Michael D Higgins‘ presidency in 2011.

As she begins her term, Connolly faces the existential threat of climate change and ongoing conflicts worldwide. “As I speak, I am acutely conscious of the 165 million people currently forcibly displaced from their homes and countries due to war, famine and climate change,” she noted. Her statement underlines a commitment to addressing global issues from a national perspective.

Moreover, Connolly’s inauguration took place on November 11, 2025, coinciding with Remembrance Day. She used this occasion to reflect on the horrors of war and genocide, asserting that “the normalisation of war and genocide has never been and will never be acceptable to us.” This historical perspective aligns with Ireland’s long-standing tradition of neutrality and peacekeeping since 1958.

Connolly also expressed her intention to foster inclusive dialogue across the island of Ireland. She pointed out her awareness of Article 3 of the Irish Constitution, which articulates the people’s aspiration for a united Ireland, contingent on consent. As part of her presidency, she aims to celebrate the rich heritage of all communities in Northern Ireland and promote a shared vision of peace and reconciliation.

A significant aspect of Connolly’s vision involves the promotion of the Irish language. She called for the language to be recognized and celebrated as a vital part of the nation’s identity. “A country without a language is a country without a soul,” she declared, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in shaping national identity.

Connolly’s speech was not only a reflection of her aspirations but also an invitation for all citizens to engage actively in shaping the future of Ireland. She concluded with a commitment to be a unifying president, a steady hand and a catalyst for change, as the nation strives to meet the challenges ahead.

“Go raibh míle maith agat,” she said, expressing gratitude to the gathered audience. As Ireland embarks on this new chapter under Connolly’s leadership, her vision for an inclusive and sustainable republic resonates as a call to action for all citizens.