Catherine Connolly Elected as Ireland’s New President

Catherine Connolly has made history by winning the Irish Presidential election, succeeding Michael D Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin. The election result, announced on July 12, 2023, marks a significant milestone for Connolly, a former barrister and clinical psychologist, as she becomes the first woman to hold this position.

Born in Shantalla, Co Galway, Connolly, aged 68, has deep roots in the community. Growing up in a large family of 13 siblings, her childhood was shaped by both personal loss and social awareness. Connolly’s mother passed away when she was just nine years old, a tragedy that she has described as pivotal in her development. She recalled a formative experience from her youth when a protest occurred against a Traveller family moving into her area. Her father, a principled man who crafted traditional Galway sailing boats, ensured that she and her siblings stayed away from the protest, but Connolly recognized the complexities involved.

“I understood why the people were protesting,” Connolly stated, reflecting on her childhood. She later dedicated herself to understanding marginalized communities, teaching horticulture to Travellers in Oranmore while pursuing her law studies. “It gave me great insight into a minority that was not treated very well by society,” she told the Press Association.

Connolly’s political journey spans over 25 years. She has served as a member of the Dáil Éireann, representing Galway West for nine years, and has held various roles, including mayor of Galway. She departed from the Labour Party in 2007, following their decision to nominate only one candidate in her constituency, where Higgins was the incumbent. In 2020, she made headlines as the first woman to become deputy speaker of the Irish parliament’s lower house, winning a surprising victory against the government’s candidate.

Throughout her political career, Connolly has been a strong advocate for various social issues, particularly those concerning Palestine and Ireland’s military neutrality. She has also criticized the use of Shannon Airport by the US military, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining Ireland’s sovereignty.

As she campaigned for the presidency, Connolly focused on themes of Irish culture and citizen engagement. Her campaign included community forums and fundraising music sessions, showcasing her commitment to grassroots politics. She aimed to create a platform that allowed citizens to “find their voice” in the political landscape.

Connolly’s campaign also drew attention for her athleticism. A former marathon and triathlon participant, she showcased her football skills by performing keepy uppies in a video that circulated online. She attributed her abilities to her “athletic” family and her experience with skipping as a child, stating that she once could perform 100 solos in a row.

With her election, Connolly brings a unique perspective shaped by her diverse experiences in education, law, and community service. Her victory is not only a personal achievement but also a significant moment for women in Irish politics as she prepares to take office and lead the nation.