🔗 Share this article

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

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

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

“In shared conversations, 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 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote 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 differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

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

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.