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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform 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 mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, 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 commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

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