Catherine Connolly was officially inaugurated as the 10th President of Ireland at a formal ceremony held in Dublin Castle on November 11. She took the Declaration of Office in St Patrick’s Hall, receiving the Presidential Seal and assuming her duties shortly before 1pm. The declaration is administered by the Chief Justice Donal O’Donnell. Like all inaugurations, the declaration was given as Gaeilge.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin congratulated Connolly in his speech on behalf of the government and the people of Ireland. “As Taoiseach, I look forward to working with President Connolly in the time ahead as Ireland continues to play a significant role on the global stage.” The Taoiseach also praised former President Michael D. Higgins, saying Higgins brought “distinction on our country.”
In Connolly’s first presidential address she said “The change that led to this joyful day began with the small group of elected representatives and volunteers facing what appeared to be insurmountable challenges. We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out, too left – at odds with the prevailing narrative.” She added that the “dominant narrative” did not reflect the people of Ireland’s values or concerns.
The inauguration ceremony included traditional elements and goodwill messages. The Defence Forces mounted a guard of honour, and a fly-past by the Irish Air Corps marked the occasion.
The Presidential Seal features the Brian Boru harp along with the Irish name of the State, surrounded by designs inspired by the ancient Ardagh Chalice, which dates back over a thousand years. The seal is used to mark official documents such as orders, warrants, and commissions signed by the President. As Catherine Connolly was confirmed as Ireland’s 10th President, a 21-gun salute was fired from Collins Barracks, while the Presidential flag was raised above the State Apartments at Dublin Castle.
President Connolly greeted students from a local Dublin school and met guests from public and civic life. She succeeds Michael D. Higgins, following his two full terms, and inherits a largely ceremonial role, but with opportunities for symbolic leadership.
While the Irish presidency does not wield direct executive power, Connolly’s words today indicate she intends to make the role meaningful by focusing on national values, interaction with everyday citizens, and the symbolic potential in the office.
As she begins her seven year term, expectations are high for a presidency that combines tradition with a push for greater civic engagement and inclusivity.