The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.
“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”
On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”
Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.
In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict 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 loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language 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 voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking 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 was formally invested.
