🔗 Share this article

The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.