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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 outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, 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 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 united opposition leftwing parties, 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 tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.