By Alex Redmond
Catherine Connolly was sworn in at St. Patrick’s Hall in Dublin Castle on Tuesday, becoming Ireland’s 10th president.
Inauguration proceedings began with Taoiseach Micheál Martin requesting Chief Justice, Dónal O’Donell, to administer the declaration of office to President Connolly.
Choosing to proclaim the declaration as gaeilge, the new president of Ireland was sworn in, becoming the third women to hold the office.
This historic moment was followed by applause and a twenty-one gun salute by Irish Defence Forces.
The ceremony also included speeches by several religious figures, of multiple faiths and music by various Irish artists.
In her first address as president, Catherine Connolly spoke of her vision for Ireland – “a republic worthy of its name, where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
The president made it clear that she wishes to articulate the concerns of the public amidst a cost of living crisis and climate emergency.
The ceremony was attended by outgoing president, Michael D. Higgins, his predecessors Mary McAleese and Mary Robinson, members of Government and opposition.
As ceremonial proceedings concluded, all stood with their new Uachtaráin na hÉireann and sang Amhrán na bhFíann.
