🔗 Share this article

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

In her inauguration address, the president presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, 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 strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.