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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 inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

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 – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, 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 label, 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 ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, 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, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.