🔗 Share this article

The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect 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 day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, 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, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, 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 first place as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.