🔗 Share this article

The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions 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, mobilised the youth, 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, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge 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 indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.