A New Era for Ireland as Catherine Connolly Takes Office
In a historic moment for Irish politics, left-wing candidate Catherine Connolly has been officially inaugurated as Ireland's 10th president at Dublin Castle. The 68-year-old former psychologist and barrister secured a decisive victory with 63% of first preference votes in the October 24 election, uniting opposition parties to overcome candidates from the two major political forces, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil.
Inauguration Day at Dublin Castle
The ceremonial inauguration on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 marked the beginning of a seven-year term for President Connolly. The event featured traditional pomp and circumstance, including an Air Corps flypast and a 21-gun salute. Ms Connolly repeated the Declaration of Office in Irish after Chief Justice Donal O'Donnell before signing the official declaration and receiving the Seal of Office.
Among the distinguished guests were former presidents Mary McAleese and Mary Robinson, outgoing president Michael D Higgins - who received warm applause - and Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill. The ceremony represented one of Ireland's most significant state occasions, occurring only once every seven years.
A Vision for Peace and Neutrality
In her inaugural address, President Connolly immediately established her political priorities, emphasizing Ireland's tradition of neutrality and its potential role in conflict resolution. "Given our history, the normalisation of war and genocide has never been and will never be acceptable to us," she declared from the former seat of British power in Ireland.
The new president articulated that Ireland's experience of colonisation and resistance gives the nation a "lived understanding of dispossession, hunger and war" and a mandate to lead alternative diplomatic solutions. She positioned climate change and ongoing wars as "inextricably linked" threats facing the nation.
Connecting with the Next Generation
Following the ceremony, President Connolly demonstrated her popular touch by speaking with students from Francis Street School. The children's enthusiastic reactions suggested strong appeal among younger generations.
"It was amazing, I think she's really good and great and I think she is going to be a great fit for our president," said student Luna Flynn. Another pupil, Declan McGuinness, described the president as "really cool and kind," while AJ Stack referenced her viral football skills, noting "I think she is going to be very good in the future."
Political Significance and Future Challenges
President Connolly's victory represents a significant moment for the Irish left, who united behind her candidacy to prevent the traditional parties from maintaining control of the presidency. Her political stance places her in opposition to Irish Taoiseach Michael Martin on several key issues.
The new president has been a long-time critic of the European Union despite Ireland's generally pro-EU stance, has attacked increased military spending, and has criticised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's position on Hamas following Britain's recognition of a Palestinian state.
While the Irish presidency is largely ceremonial with limited constitutional powers, President Connolly's maiden speech hinted that she may push the boundaries of accepted norms during her seven-year term, potentially creating tension with the centre-right government.
The inauguration ceremony concluded with President Connolly reviewing Defence Forces outside Dublin Castle, marking the formal transition from Michael D Higgins's 14-year presidency to what many anticipate will be a more politically active tenure.
