🔗 Share this article

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

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to 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 served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice 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 eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate 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 practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced 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, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish 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 language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

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