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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“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 landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated 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 tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and war 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 declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment 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 language of business.”

No nation can express its desires 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 dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.