Post by : Rameen Ariff

Dublin, Ireland — Catherine Connolly has officially taken the oath as the 10th President of the Republic of Ireland, opening a new chapter in the nation’s political landscape. During her inauguration at Dublin Castle, Connolly vowed to “listen to and nurture all voices” as she takes on this esteemed role.

The 68-year-old leader succeeds Michael D. Higgins, whose 14-year presidency concluded at midnight. Connolly won decisively in late October against Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys, pledging a presidency dedicated to inclusivity, unity, and fostering dialogue throughout the island.

A Commitment to an Inclusive Ireland

In her inaugural address, she reflected on the transformative changes in Ireland’s identity, especially since the Cold War. Connolly highlighted her dedication to promoting understanding and communication between communities on either side of the border.

“I eagerly anticipate my initial visit to Northern Ireland as President,” she stated. “Our actions today will shape the legacy for our grandchildren.”

Connolly praised the Good Friday Agreement, describing it as a beacon of conflict resolution that inspires democratic societies around the globe.

Political Leaders and Former Presidents Attend Ceremony

The inauguration, held at St Patrick’s Hall in Dublin Castle, was graced by notable figures, including former presidents Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese, and former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar along with current Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

She took her oath before Chief Justice Donal O'Donnell, receiving the Presidential Seal and officially beginning her duties as head of state. While largely a ceremonial role, the presidency carries significant symbolic weight as a representation of national unity and moral essence.

Attendees included Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald. A light-hearted moment occurred when Connolly mistakenly referred to O’Neill as “Michelle Smith”, prompting laughter in the hall.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly was absent due to prior engagements for Remembrance Day in Belfast and Windsor but sent her best wishes, looking forward to future interactions.

Unionist Views and Political Responses

While several unionist representatives had scheduling conflicts, Ulster Unionist Party MLA Steve Aiken represented them, emphasizing that the absence of others was “not a snub.”

“I’m here as a unionist to pay respect to the President,” Aiken remarked. “It’s crucial to acknowledge the importance of this occasion for Ireland.”

Transition and Initial Presidential Commitments

After the ceremony, Connolly and her husband, Brian McEnery, traveled in a ceremonial motorcade to Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the president. Later, she was the guest of honor at a state reception at Dublin Castle.

This Wednesday, the new president plans to visit a gaelscoil in Dublin, a family resource center in County Meath, and a nursing home in County Galway—early moves reflecting her commitment to engaging with communities throughout the nation.

As a TD since 2016, Connolly has a background as a barrister and psychologist. Her ascent to the presidency will also initiate a by-election in Galway West, her former constituency in the Dáil.

As Ireland enters this new era under President Catherine Connolly, her messages of compassion, inclusion, and unity are poised to define her tenure, focusing on bridging divides while ensuring all voices across the island are heard.

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