🔗 Share this article

The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing 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 marginalise, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—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, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place 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 sufficient respect or recognition. 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 each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.