Catherine Connolly has said she will make sure all voices are nurtured and heard during her presidency. Speaking at Dublin Castle where she was inaugurated as the 10th president of the Republic of Ireland, she said the country has been undergoing 'seismic changes' since the end of the Cold War. She expressed her eagerness for her first visit to Northern Ireland as president, emphasizing her commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue across the island.
Connolly emerged victorious in a landslide vote at the end of October, defeating Fine Gael candidate Heather Humphreys. The 68-year-old now takes over the role from Michael D. Higgins, whose 14-year tenure concluded at midnight.
The inauguration ceremony attracted a distinguished guest list, including politicians, judges, and other dignitaries, and underscored the unity following the Good Friday Agreement model for resolving conflict. Taoiseach Micheál Martin congratulated Connolly on assuming the office, marking it as a 'happy and momentous' occasion for her and her family.
While the presidency is a non-executive position, it symbolizes the head of state for the Republic of Ireland. Connolly's journey to the ceremonial office began with a motorcade from Farmleigh at Phoenix Park to Dublin Castle accompanied by her husband, Brian McEnery. After being sworn into office by the Chief Justice in St Patrick's Hall, a service of prayer and reflection marked the significance of the occasion.
Connolly, who has served as a TD since 2016, will have her election trigger a by-election in Galway West. Following the ceremony, Connolly will travel to Áras an Uachtaráin, the official presidential residence, to begin her duties.
Connolly emerged victorious in a landslide vote at the end of October, defeating Fine Gael candidate Heather Humphreys. The 68-year-old now takes over the role from Michael D. Higgins, whose 14-year tenure concluded at midnight.
The inauguration ceremony attracted a distinguished guest list, including politicians, judges, and other dignitaries, and underscored the unity following the Good Friday Agreement model for resolving conflict. Taoiseach Micheál Martin congratulated Connolly on assuming the office, marking it as a 'happy and momentous' occasion for her and her family.
While the presidency is a non-executive position, it symbolizes the head of state for the Republic of Ireland. Connolly's journey to the ceremonial office began with a motorcade from Farmleigh at Phoenix Park to Dublin Castle accompanied by her husband, Brian McEnery. After being sworn into office by the Chief Justice in St Patrick's Hall, a service of prayer and reflection marked the significance of the occasion.
Connolly, who has served as a TD since 2016, will have her election trigger a by-election in Galway West. Following the ceremony, Connolly will travel to Áras an Uachtaráin, the official presidential residence, to begin her duties.
