Catherine Connolly was inaugurated as the 10th president of the Republic of Ireland at Dublin Castle, succeeding Michael D. Higgins. Connolly, who was elected in a landslide victory at the end of October, expressed her commitment to ensuring that all voices within the nation are heard during her presidency. She noted that Ireland has been experiencing significant changes since the Cold War.
In her inauguration speech, Connolly mentioned her eagerness for her first visit to Northern Ireland and emphasized her intention to promote inclusive dialogue across the island. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill, who was accompanied by Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald.
Connolly takes over the presidency at the age of 68, marking the beginning of a non-executive role that carries symbolic significance in Irish governance. The swearing-in ceremony included a service of prayer and reflection, during which Connolly received the Presidential Seal and delivered her address.
Notably absent from the event was Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), who cited commitments in Belfast for Remembrance Day. This absence has raised questions about the representation of unionist sentiment at the inauguration. Ulster Unionist Party MLA Steve Aiken was the only unionist politician present, emphasizing respect for the new president despite some colleagues’ absence.
Following the ceremony, Connolly traveled to Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the president, where a state reception was set to occur later that evening. Her election as president will also result in a by-election for her parliamentary seat in Galway West. Connolly previously served as both a barrister and a psychologist before entering political office.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cnveplv3lzmo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss