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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, 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, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, 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 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard 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 renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, 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, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—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 mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “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 said. “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 new president received the seal of office.