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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

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

“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 remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, 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 exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, acceptance, 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

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

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

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

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

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.