🔗 Share this article

The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, 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 affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, 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 worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised 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, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect 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 sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.