London [UK], November 12: The new president of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, said on Tuesday she will ensure "all voices are represented, heard and valued" as she was sworn in.
The prime minister, or taoiseach, Micheal Martin and his deputy Simon Harris were among those attending the ceremony in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle. The independent lawmaker from Galway, who is a former psychologist and barrister, repeated in Irish the Declaration of Office - which was read to her by Chief Justice Donal O'Donnell.
Connolly then signed the declaration and was officially declared president.
A 21-gun salute was fired from Collins Barracks as Connolly was handed the Seal of Office.
In her first address as president, Connolly said she will ensure "all voices are represented, heard and valued".
She said she stood before those gathered "humbly and proudly as the 10th president of this beautiful country".
Connolly said: "The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, 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."
Taoiseach Micheal Martin congratulated Catherine Connolly on becoming Ireland's new president.
Source: Qatar Tribune