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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape 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 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 far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, 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 ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

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 clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.