🔗 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.

In her inauguration address, the president presented a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative 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 stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance 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 renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, 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 securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit 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 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.