Ireland's New President Sworn In on Celebratory Occasion and Festivities
The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.
During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.
“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.
“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”
On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.
“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”
The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, 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 voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.
In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”
Commending Ireland’s neutrality—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 loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”
The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.
Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”
No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”
A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.
