🔗 Share this article

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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, 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 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 environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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