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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative 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 hinder independent thought.”

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 advance climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies 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 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 tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

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 deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

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

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly 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 primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened 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 head of state was formally invested.