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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated 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 platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

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

Commending 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 Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state was formally invested.