Ireland's New President Takes Office on Day of Pomp and Festivities
The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.
“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”
On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”
The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.
Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.
In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”
Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—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 dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”
Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.
Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment 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 indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour 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 artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.
