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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 legacy of decolonisation.

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

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with 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 hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. 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 working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. 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 sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.